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When the devastating cyclone made landfall on Jamaica on the 28th of October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it resulted in a landscape of widespread ruin. Dwellings, medical facilities, and critical infrastructure were leveled, resulting in the tragic loss of 32 lives and affecting an staggering 1.5 million. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the tangible destruction would be shadowed by profound and long-term traumatic memories.

“Simple sounds can provoke them,” Ifill explains. “An individual described a trolley we often move through the passageways, whose noise evoked memories of breaking wood and the fierce gales. She has become averse to hearing that sound.”

Weeks after the hurricane, which also impacted neighboring Cuba, recollections of the horrific event continue to affect a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Simply the noise of a downpour can now elicit panic among individuals who endured it.

The Unseen Cost Alongside Billions in Damage

This disaster led to a massive financial package totaling up to $6.7bn over a three-year period and an extra disbursement of $150m from a innovative disaster insurance instrument. But, authorities note this financial relief cannot cover the psychological cost: widespread trauma—especially among those previously affected from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.

While the primary focus centers on physical reconstruction, academic work over the last several years demonstrate that the likelihood of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) rises significantly after hurricanes and displacement. Researchers are now calling for the incorporation of mental health support into disaster response plans across small island developing states.

Layered Struggles: Displacement and Emotional Stability

Scholars highlight how extended displacement, destroyed jobs, and insufficient support amplify psychological vulnerabilities. A scholarly article flagged a clear threat of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after climate-related events. Another study recorded similar anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people who survived previous storms.

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

Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in disaster studies, agrees. She observes that while individuals can be strong, as the climate crisis worsens, emotional fallout is becoming an ever more critical issue—although extensive research is still lacking.

Both Smith and Heanoy found that women reported higher mental distress than men. “So it’s quite possible women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith explains.

The Difficult Journey to Recovery

Dr. Heanoy notes that while some short-term recovery in well-being may occur within a year of the event, long-term outcomes are still unclear. The degree to which survivors bounce back depends heavily on the specific triggers and the support available.

The experts observe that the destruction of property and livelihoods can intensify the emotional challenge to start over. Smith calls housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” notably when people have no economic cushion. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she emphasizes.

Ifill observes the same pattern among her those seeking help: “Those who had pre-existing mental health challenges have noticed it’s far more intense in this time since the storm.”

Beyond the mental toll, tangible problems remain. The hurricane severely damaged critical water infrastructure, hampering the complete restoration of potable water. Financial aid, while necessary, do not address all of the deep-seated infrastructure problems laid bare by the storm.

Grassroots Networks as a Essential Pillar

A key finding is that rebuilding alone cannot heal the psychological injuries caused by the loss of loved ones. Studies consistently finds that survivors commonly experience social networks to be more immediate than official aid.

“The government’s role is essential,” Smith acknowledges. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is inefficient, communities support one another.”

Ifill similarly praises the power of social bonds in navigating hardship. She recalls being “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.”

She further praises initiatives to support emotional well-being after the disaster but cautions about the harms of consuming endless negative news. “My advice was limiting social media, trusting verified sources, and using messaging apps to connect with family.”

An Expanding International Focus

Recently, psychological support has received more focus from international agencies due to the worsening climate crisis. The rising occurrence of climate disasters has prompted the development of tools for psychological first aid.

International bodies have published practical guides to assist aid personnel in providing psychosocial support in the aftermath of disasters. These projects aim to build psychological fortitude by building capacity, combating stigma, and encouraging the use of mental health services.

Economic support are also highlighted as crucial for safeguarding mental health. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a previous flood, stresses the despair that arises when expected aid is not delivered. “Assessments were made... But up to this day, we never got any payment,” he recounts.

A Plea for Comprehensive Recovery

Leaders observe that the Caribbean region accounts for a minuscule fraction of global emissions yet endures disastrous climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed essential to mitigate enduring trauma.

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