When the powerful Category 5 storm ravaged Jamaica on 28 October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it caused a scene of catastrophic damage. Homes, hospitals, and vital systems were destroyed, leading to 32 fatalities and affecting an approximate 1.5 million people. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the material damage would be paired with profound and persistent emotional wounds.
“Simple sounds can activate them,” Ifill states. “An individual spoke of a cart we often push through the halls, whose sound reminded her of splintering trees and the roaring storm. She no longer wants to hearing that auditory reminder.”
Over six weeks after the catastrophe, which also struck eastern Cuba, memories of the horrific event continue to trouble many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of falling rain can now cause panic among individuals who endured it.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Economic Reconstruction
The catastrophic event triggered a substantial aid package totaling up to $6.7bn over three years and an additional payment of $150m from a pioneering disaster insurance instrument. However, experts warn this monetary aid cannot cover the invisible cost: pervasive mental health crises—notably among those previously affected from another major storm in 2024.
Whereas the primary focus is directed toward rebuilding infrastructure, academic work over the recent years demonstrate that the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) grows markedly after hurricanes and losing one's home. Experts are now urging the inclusion of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Insecurity and Mental Health
Scholars emphasize how long-term dislocation, destroyed jobs, and inadequate services amplify mental health risks. A 2023 Caribbean-focused paper identified a heightened danger of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after natural disasters. Additional analysis documented parallel fear, anxiety, and distress among people affected by other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has examined disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors typically experience three primary psychological hurdles: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in risk reduction, agrees. She points out that while people are often tough, as the frequency of disasters increases, emotional fallout is becoming an increasingly significant issue—although comprehensive data is still lacking.
The researchers found that female survivors experienced more severe emotional impact than men. “This suggests women are more susceptible than males in such catastrophes,” Smith explains.
The Uncertain Path to Healing
Dr. Heanoy states that while some initial improvement in well-being can happen within a twelve-month period, the ultimate prognosis can be unpredictable. The degree to which survivors heal is largely determined by the specific triggers and the support available.
The experts note that the destruction of property and possessions can magnify the mental struggle to start over. Smith describes housing loss “a major source of stress,” notably when people have no economic cushion. “Starting again comes with its own emotional tax,” she emphasizes.
Ifill sees 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 mental impact, tangible issues persist. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, delaying the full return of potable water. Insurance payouts, while necessary, do not address all of the deep-seated infrastructure problems revealed by the storm.
Grassroots Networks as a Essential Lifeline
A key finding is that physical reconstruction by itself does not address the emotional wounds caused by life-altering injuries. Research indicates that survivors commonly experience help from neighbors to be more immediate than bureaucratic help.
“The government’s role is crucial,” Smith acknowledges. “When it is lacking, or when it is inefficient, communities provide mutual aid.”
Ifill also highlights the power of community solidarity in navigating hardship. She notes she was “impressed by the positive attitude” among resilient populations. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they make jokes about the storm.”
She further commends steps to support emotional well-being after the disaster but warns about the negative effects of constant exposure to traumatic media. “I recommended curating news intake, trusting verified sources, and leveraging technology to connect with family.”
An Increasing International Focus
Over the past decade, psychosocial care has garnered greater attention from world bodies due to the intensifying climate crisis. The rising occurrence of hurricanes has led to the development of tools for trauma support.
Major health organizations have published practical guides to assist aid personnel in offering psychological care in the immediate period of catastrophes. These initiatives aim to foster psychological fortitude by training professionals, reducing shame, and facilitating the use of mental health services.
Financial aid are also identified as key for protecting mental health. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a previous flood, stresses the despair that arises when promised compensation never arrives. “Assessments were made... But to this date, we were not granted compensation,” he says.
A Plea for Integrated Recovery
Experts note that the Caribbean region contributes a very small fraction of global emissions yet bears extreme climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed vital to mitigate enduring trauma.
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