When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on 28 October with 185-mile-per-hour winds, it left behind a landscape of utter destruction. Homes, hospitals, and vital systems were destroyed, causing 32 deaths and disrupting the lives of an approximate 1.5 million individuals. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the physical wreckage would be shadowed by profound and persistent emotional wounds.
“Simple sounds can trigger them,” Ifill states. “A patient mentioned a wheeled bin we often move through the passageways, whose clatter sounded like splintering trees and the roaring storm. She has become averse to hearing that particular noise.”
Over six weeks after the catastrophe, which also struck eastern Cuba, recollections of the horrific event continue to trouble some staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of rain can now cause trauma responses among survivors.
The Hidden Toll Beyond Financial Losses
This disaster resulted in a significant recovery package valued at $6.7 billion over several years and an extra disbursement of millions from a groundbreaking disaster insurance instrument. Yet, authorities note this financial relief fails to account for the unseen cost: pervasive mental health crises—notably among those who had been recovering from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
Whereas the primary focus targets physical reconstruction, research over the recent years demonstrate that the risk of severe anxiety disorders grows substantially after hurricanes and displacement. Mental health professionals are now urging the inclusion of psychological care into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Layered Struggles: Insecurity and Mental Health
Academics stress how extended displacement, vanishing incomes, and insufficient support exacerbate mental health risks. A scholarly article warned of a heightened danger of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after climate-related events. Further research documented parallel anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people affected by tropical cyclones.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has examined disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors could face a trio of mental health challenges: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a scholar in disaster studies, agrees. She notes that while individuals can be strong, as the frequency of disasters increases, mental health is becoming an major issue—even though comprehensive data is not widely available.
These experts found that women affected reported higher mental distress than male counterparts. “This suggests women are at greater emotional risk than males when disaster strikes,” Smith explains.
The Difficult Journey to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy states that while some early progress in mental health may occur within a year of the event, the ultimate prognosis are still unclear. The degree to which survivors recover hinges on the circumstances of their suffering and the care they receive.
The experts note that the being rendered homeless and resources can heighten the emotional challenge to rebuild. Smith describes housing loss “a major source of stress,” notably when financial safety nets are absent. “Reconstruction comes with its own psychological weight,” she adds.
Ifill observes the parallel situation among her clients: “People who had previous psychological issues have found it’s much more severe in this aftermath.”
Beyond the psychological damage, tangible problems persist. The hurricane destroyed key water infrastructure, slowing the full return of clean water. Financial aid, while crucial, do not address all of the deep-seated infrastructure problems revealed by the storm.
Community Cohesion as a Vital Foundation
A key finding is that physical reconstruction by itself fails to mend the emotional wounds caused by the loss of loved ones. Research shows that survivors commonly experience help from neighbors to be more responsive than bureaucratic help.
“The government’s role is important,” Smith says. “In its absence, or when it is delayed, local people support one another.”
Ifill also highlights the value of community solidarity in overcoming challenges. She says she was “moved by the sense of humour” among strong communities. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they find lightness about the storm.”
Additionally, she commends efforts to support emotional well-being after the disaster but cautions about the harms of consuming endless negative news. “The guidance included curating news intake, sticking to reliable news, and using messaging apps to connect with family.”
A Growing Global Recognition
Over the past decade, psychosocial care has received more focus from international agencies due to the worsening climate emergency. The rising occurrence of hurricanes has catalyzed the development of tools for trauma support.
Major health organizations have released detailed resources to assist field workers in providing psychological care in the aftermath of disasters. These efforts aim to build psychological fortitude by educating caregivers, combating stigma, and encouraging the seeking of professional help.
Monetary support are also identified as fundamental for protecting psychological recovery. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a past disaster, stresses the frustration that arises when expected aid is not delivered. “Assessments were made... But even now, we were not granted any payment,” he says.
An Appeal for Integrated Rebuilding
Experts observe that the Caribbean region is responsible for a minuscule fraction of global emissions yet bears disastrous climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed essential to prevent enduring trauma.
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