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When the devastating cyclone struck Jamaica on 28 October with 185-mile-per-hour winds, it left behind a scene of widespread ruin. Residences, medical facilities, and critical infrastructure were destroyed, leading to the tragic loss of 32 lives and disrupting the lives of an approximate 1.5 million individuals. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was instantly apparent that the physical wreckage would be shadowed by profound and long-term traumatic memories.

“Commonplace things can activate them,” Ifill explains. “One woman described a cart we often move through the corridors, whose clatter sounded like splintering trees and the fierce gales. She no longer wants to experiencing that sound.”

A month and a half after the catastrophe, which also impacted parts of Cuba, flashbacks of the horrific event continue to haunt many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Simply the noise of rain can now elicit panic among those who lived through it.

The Psychological Price Beyond Billions in Damage

The catastrophic event resulted in a significant financial package totaling billions of dollars over several years and an additional payout of $150 million from a innovative risk financing tool. But, experts warn this financial relief cannot cover the psychological cost: widespread trauma—notably among those who had been recovering from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.

While most attention is directed toward rebuilding infrastructure, academic work over the last several years demonstrate that the risk of severe anxiety disorders increases markedly after hurricanes and forced relocation. Researchers are now urging the inclusion of psychological care into national recovery strategies across small island developing states.

Compounded Vulnerabilities: Insecurity and Psychological Well-being

Researchers highlight how prolonged homelessness, loss of livelihoods, and poor access to care exacerbate emotional distress. A recent regional study flagged a clear threat of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after climate-related events. Another study found comparable anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people affected by previous storms.

Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has studied disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors often encounter three primary emotional obstacles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in disaster studies, concurs. She observes that while individuals can be strong, as the frequency of disasters increases, psychological well-being is becoming an major issue—despite the fact that detailed prevalence surveys is not widely available.

Both Smith and Heanoy found that women experienced higher mental distress than male counterparts. “It indicates that women are more psychologically vulnerable than males when disaster strikes,” Smith says.

The Long Road to Healing

Dr. Heanoy notes that while some short-term recovery in mental health may occur within a twelve-month period, the lasting effects remain uncertain. The degree to which survivors heal depends heavily on the circumstances of their suffering and the resources accessible.

The experts observe that the loss of homes and livelihoods can magnify the emotional challenge to rebuild. Smith labels housing loss “a major source of stress,” notably when people have no economic cushion. “Rebuilding comes with its own psychological weight,” she says.

Ifill sees the parallel situation among her those seeking help: “People who had mental health conditions before have noticed it’s far more intense in this time since the storm.”

In addition to the psychological toll, tangible issues continue. The hurricane severely damaged key water infrastructure, hampering the complete restoration of water services. Financial aid, while crucial, cannot resolve the systemic weaknesses laid bare by the storm.

Community Support as a Essential Foundation

Perhaps most importantly is that material recovery does not address the psychological injuries caused by life-altering injuries. Research consistently finds that survivors often find help from neighbors to be more immediate than government assistance.

“Official action is crucial,” Smith says. “In its absence, or when it is slow, communities support one another.”

Ifill notes the value of mutual support in navigating hardship. She says she was “moved by the sense of humour” among resilient populations. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they make jokes about the storm.”

Ifill also acknowledges initiatives to encourage emotional well-being after the disaster but warns about the negative effects of doomscrolling. “I recommended reducing screen time, following official updates, and using messaging apps to maintain social support.”

An Expanding Global Recognition

In recent years, psychological support has garnered greater attention from global organizations due to the intensifying climate crisis. The growing regularity of climate disasters has catalyzed the development of guidelines for trauma support.

Major health organizations have developed practical guides to help field workers in delivering psychosocial support in the wake of catastrophes. These initiatives aim to build community and personal strength by educating caregivers, promoting openness, and promoting the use of mental health services.

Monetary support are also underlined as key for protecting psychological recovery. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a previous flood, stresses the despair that arises when expected aid is not delivered. “Officials visited... But to this date, we did not receive any payment,” he states.

A Plea for Holistic Rebuilding

Leaders argue that the Caribbean region contributes a tiny fraction of planetary pollution yet suffers disproportionate climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed essential to prevent chronic psychological damage.

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