When the devastating cyclone struck Jamaica on October 28th with 185-mile-per-hour winds, it resulted in a picture of catastrophic damage. Dwellings, hospitals, and key utilities were destroyed, causing 32 deaths and disrupting the lives of an estimated 1.5 million individuals. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the tangible destruction would be paired with profound and persistent emotional wounds.
“Commonplace things can trigger them,” Ifill notes. “An individual mentioned a wheeled bin we often roll through the halls, whose sound sounded like splintering trees and the roaring storm. She has become averse to listening to that auditory reminder.”
Weeks after the storm, which also impacted eastern Cuba, flashbacks of the frightening storm continue to affect many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of falling rain can now cause stress reactions among those who lived through it.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Economic Reconstruction
Hurricane Melissa resulted in a significant recovery package totaling up to $6.7bn over a three-year period and an additional payment of $150 million from a innovative disaster insurance instrument. Yet, experts warn this economic assistance fails to account for the unseen cost: pervasive mental health crises—especially among those still recovering from a previous disaster in 2024.
Whereas most attention is directed toward restoring buildings, research over the last several years show that the likelihood of PTSD increases substantially after major storms and losing one's home. Experts are now advocating for the incorporation of psychological care into national recovery strategies across the region.
Increased Risks: Displacement and Psychological Well-being
Researchers stress how prolonged homelessness, destroyed jobs, and insufficient support exacerbate emotional distress. A recent regional study warned of a significant risk of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after natural disasters. Another study found similar fear, anxiety, and distress among people affected by previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has examined disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors typically experience several key emotional obstacles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in geography and disaster risk management, concurs. She observes that while humans are generally resilient, as the frequency of disasters increases, psychological well-being is becoming an increasingly significant issue—even though comprehensive data is still lacking.
The researchers found that women showed greater psychological suffering than male counterparts. “It indicates that women are more susceptible than males during these events,” Smith says.
The Difficult Journey to Psychological Repair
Dr. Heanoy states that while some short-term recovery in psychological state may occur within a year of the event, long-term outcomes are still unclear. The extent to which survivors recover is largely determined by the circumstances of their suffering and the resources accessible.
The experts observe that the loss of homes and livelihoods can intensify the emotional challenge to recover. Smith labels housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” particularly when insurance or savings are lacking. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she says.
Ifill sees the parallel situation among her those seeking help: “Those who had mental health conditions before have reported it’s far more intense in this time since the storm.”
Apart from the psychological toll, physical issues continue. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, delaying the reliable supply of clean water. Financial aid, while necessary, are insufficient to fix the systemic weaknesses exposed by the storm.
Grassroots Networks as a Critical Lifeline
A key finding is that material recovery does not address the deep sorrow caused by the loss of loved ones. Research shows that survivors commonly experience social networks to be more effective than bureaucratic help.
“Official action is important,” Smith acknowledges. “When it is lacking, or when it is inefficient, communities keep each other whole.”
Ifill similarly praises the strength of mutual support in navigating hardship. She notes she was “struck by the positive attitude” among strong communities. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has more jovial people, they make jokes about the storm.”
Additionally, she acknowledges initiatives to support psychological self-care after the disaster but advises about the negative effects of doomscrolling. “My advice was curating news intake, trusting verified sources, and using messaging apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”
A Growing International Focus
Over the past decade, mental health has received more focus from international agencies due to the escalating climate emergency. The rising occurrence of hurricanes has catalyzed the development of guidelines for psychological first aid.
Major health organizations have released comprehensive manuals to help responders in providing emotional aid in the wake of disasters. These efforts aim to build community and personal strength by educating caregivers, reducing shame, and facilitating the seeking of professional help.
Monetary resources are also identified as crucial for safeguarding mental health. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a previous flood, highlights the frustration that arises when expected aid fails to materialize. “Officials visited... But even now, we were not granted the promised help,” he states.
A Plea for Integrated Healing
Analysts note that the Caribbean region contributes a very small fraction of planetary pollution yet suffers extreme climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed vital to avoid enduring trauma.
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