When the devastating cyclone struck Jamaica on the 28th of October with 185-mile-per-hour winds, it left behind a scene of widespread ruin. Homes, medical facilities, and vital systems were severely compromised, leading to the tragic loss of 32 lives and impacting an staggering 1.5 million people. For mental health expert Toni-Jan Ifill, it was instantly apparent that the tangible destruction would be paired with profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Commonplace occurrences can provoke them,” Ifill notes. “One woman described a cart we often push through the passageways, whose sound reminded her of cracking branches and the howling wind. She now refuses to hearing that sound.”
A month and a half after the storm, which also struck neighboring Cuba, memories of the terrifying winds continue to haunt a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of falling rain can now prompt panic among survivors.
The Unseen Cost Amidst Financial Losses
This disaster resulted in a massive aid package worth up to $6.7 billion over several years and an further payment of millions from a groundbreaking catastrophe bond. Yet, authorities note this economic assistance cannot cover the unseen cost: extensive emotional suffering—notably among those who had been recovering from a previous disaster in 2024.
Whereas the lion's share of effort targets restoring buildings, studies over the last several years indicate that the risk of PTSD increases markedly after hurricanes and forced relocation. Experts are now calling for the inclusion of mental health support into disaster response plans across the region.
Increased Risks: Loss and Psychological Well-being
Academics highlight how long-term dislocation, vanishing incomes, and inadequate services worsen mental health risks. A recent regional study flagged a significant risk of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after climate-related events. Another study documented similar psychological turmoil among people affected by previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has examined disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors often encounter several key psychological hurdles: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in risk reduction, agrees. She points out that while individuals can be strong, as the climate crisis worsens, mental health is becoming an increasingly significant issue—although detailed prevalence surveys is often insufficient.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that women experienced more severe emotional impact than men. “This suggests women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith says.
The Difficult Journey to Psychological Repair
Dr. Heanoy says that while some short-term recovery in well-being can happen within a twelve-month period, the lasting effects remain uncertain. The extent to which survivors recover hinges on the specific triggers and the resources accessible.
The experts observe that the loss of homes and resources can intensify the emotional challenge to start over. Smith describes housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” especially when financial safety nets are absent. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she says.
Ifill observes the same pattern among her those seeking help: “Those who had previous psychological issues have reported it’s far more intense in this time since the storm.”
Beyond the psychological toll, tangible issues persist. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, hampering the full return of water services. Insurance payouts, while crucial, are insufficient to fix the chronic vulnerabilities revealed by the storm.
Social Support as a Critical Foundation
A key finding is that material recovery fails to mend the psychological injuries caused by permanent disabilities. Studies consistently finds that survivors commonly experience community support to be more immediate than bureaucratic help.
“The government’s role is important,” Smith acknowledges. “When it is lacking, or when it is slow, neighbors support one another.”
Ifill similarly praises the value of mutual support in navigating hardship. She recalls being “impressed by the sense of humour” among strong communities. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they share laughter about the storm.”
She further acknowledges steps to encourage emotional well-being after the disaster but cautions about the negative effects of consuming endless negative news. “My advice was reducing screen time, trusting verified sources, and turning to apps to connect with family.”
A Growing Regional Priority
Recently, mental health has received more focus from international agencies due to the intensifying climate crisis. The growing regularity of extreme weather has prompted the development of frameworks for mental health response.
Major health organizations have published detailed resources to help aid personnel in delivering psychosocial support in the wake of traumatic events. These initiatives aim to strengthen community and personal strength by training professionals, reducing shame, and encouraging the use of mental health services.
Monetary resources are also highlighted as fundamental for protecting mental health. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a previous flood, emphasizes the frustration that arises when promised compensation fails to materialize. “Assessments were made... But even now, we never got any payment,” he recounts.
A Plea for Comprehensive Healing
Experts argue that the Caribbean region accounts for a very small fraction of global emissions yet endures disproportionate climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed essential to prevent prolonged suffering.
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