🔗 Share this article

When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it left behind a picture of utter destruction. Homes, medical facilities, and critical infrastructure were severely compromised, causing 32 deaths and impacting an approximate 1.5 million. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the material damage would be accompanied by profound and enduring psychological scars.

“Commonplace things can activate them,” Ifill explains. “An individual described a wheeled bin we often push through the passageways, whose clatter reminded her of splintering trees and the fierce gales. She no longer wants to experiencing that auditory reminder.”

A month and a half after the storm, which also struck eastern Cuba, memories of the terrifying winds continue to trouble some staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of falling rain can now prompt panic among those who lived through it.

The Unseen Cost Amidst Billions in Damage

This disaster resulted in a substantial financial package totaling billions of dollars over a three-year period and an extra payment of millions from a groundbreaking risk financing tool. Yet, authorities note this economic assistance fails to account for the invisible cost: widespread trauma—notably among those who had been recovering from a previous disaster in 2024.

While the lion's share of effort targets rebuilding infrastructure, academic work over the last several years indicate that the likelihood of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) grows markedly after major storms and displacement. Experts are now advocating for the incorporation of mental health support into climate-disaster policy across small island developing states.

Layered Struggles: Displacement and Mental Health

Researchers stress how extended displacement, vanishing incomes, and poor access to care amplify psychological vulnerabilities. A scholarly article identified a clear threat of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after extreme weather. Another study recorded parallel anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people displaced by previous storms.

Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has studied disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors typically experience a trio of emotional obstacles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in risk reduction, echoes this view. She points out that while individuals can be strong, as the frequency of disasters increases, psychological well-being is becoming an major issue—despite the fact that comprehensive data is not widely available.

Both Smith and Heanoy found that women affected showed greater psychological suffering than men. “This suggests women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith says.

The Long Road to Recovery

Dr. Heanoy notes that while some early progress in mental health is often seen within a year of the event, the lasting effects remain uncertain. The extent to which survivors bounce back hinges on the specific triggers and the care they receive.

The experts see that the destruction of property and resources can heighten the psychological burden to rebuild. Smith labels housing loss “a major source of stress,” notably when financial safety nets are absent. “Reconstruction comes with its own psychological weight,” she emphasizes.

Ifill sees the parallel situation among her clients: “Individuals who had previous psychological issues have reported it’s far more intense in this time since the storm.”

In addition to the emotional damage, physical challenges persist. The hurricane wiped out vital water infrastructure, hampering the reliable supply of clean water. Insurance payouts, while helpful, do not address all of the chronic vulnerabilities revealed by the storm.

Social Networks as a Essential Pillar

Perhaps most importantly is that rebuilding alone does not address the emotional wounds caused by life-altering injuries. Studies consistently finds that survivors often find social networks to be more responsive than bureaucratic help.

“The government’s role is crucial,” Smith says. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is slow, neighbors keep each other whole.”

Ifill similarly praises the strength of social bonds in overcoming challenges. She notes she was “struck by the positive attitude” among strong communities. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they share laughter about the storm.”

Ifill also acknowledges efforts to encourage mental health awareness after the disaster but cautions about the harms of consuming endless negative news. “I recommended curating news intake, trusting verified sources, and leveraging technology to stay in touch with loved ones.”

A Growing Global Recognition

In recent years, psychological support has received more focus from international agencies due to the escalating climate crisis. The growing regularity of climate disasters has catalyzed the development of guidelines for psychological first aid.

Major health organizations have developed comprehensive manuals to train field workers in providing psychosocial support in the aftermath of disasters. These initiatives aim to build individual and social resilience by building capacity, reducing shame, and encouraging the seeking of professional help.

Economic support are also underlined as key for protecting psychological recovery. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost everything in a previous flood, highlights the frustration that arises when official support fails to materialize. “Assessments were made... But to this date, we never got any payment,” he states.

A Call for Holistic Rebuilding

Leaders argue that the Caribbean region contributes a tiny fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet bears extreme climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed vital to avoid chronic psychological damage.

“The current situation and our built environment do not match|cor