When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on 28 October with 185-mile-per-hour winds, it left behind a scene of utter destruction. Dwellings, hospitals, and critical infrastructure were leveled, resulting in the tragic loss of 32 lives and affecting an approximate 1.5 million individuals. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was instantly apparent that the material damage would be paired with profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Simple things can provoke them,” Ifill states. “A patient described a wheeled bin we often push through the corridors, whose noise sounded like cracking branches and the fierce gales. She has become averse to experiencing that sound.”
A month and a half after the hurricane, which also affected neighboring Cuba, memories of the horrific event continue to affect many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of a downpour can now elicit panic among individuals who endured it.
The Hidden Toll Amidst Financial Losses
Hurricane Melissa resulted in a substantial financial package worth up to billions of dollars over a three-year period and an extra payment of $150m from a groundbreaking disaster insurance instrument. Yet, experts warn this economic assistance does not address the invisible cost: widespread trauma—especially among those still recovering from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
Whereas the primary focus targets restoring buildings, research over the last several years demonstrate that the risk of severe anxiety disorders rises substantially after hurricanes and forced relocation. Researchers are now calling for the inclusion of psychological care into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Compounded Vulnerabilities: Insecurity and Psychological Well-being
Researchers stress how extended displacement, destroyed jobs, and poor access to care amplify emotional distress. A recent regional study identified a clear threat of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after extreme weather. Further research documented similar anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people who survived other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has examined disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors typically experience a trio of psychological hurdles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in geography and disaster risk management, echoes this view. She observes that while humans are generally resilient, as the climate crisis worsens, mental health is becoming an ever more critical issue—even though extensive research is not widely available.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that women affected reported greater psychological suffering than male counterparts. “So it’s quite possible women are at greater emotional risk than males in such catastrophes,” Smith explains.
The Difficult Journey to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy states that while some early progress in well-being is often seen within a year, long-term outcomes can be unpredictable. The likelihood to which survivors bounce back hinges on the specific triggers and the support available.
The experts observe that the loss of homes and livelihoods can magnify the mental struggle to rebuild. Smith describes housing loss “a major source of stress,” especially when insurance or savings are lacking. “Rebuilding comes with its own mental burden,” she says.
Ifill observes the same pattern among her patients: “People who had pre-existing mental health challenges have noticed it’s much more severe in this short period of time.”
Apart from the emotional damage, tangible issues remain. The hurricane destroyed critical water infrastructure, delaying the full return of potable water. Financial aid, while necessary, do not address all of the systemic weaknesses exposed by the storm.
Community Support as a Vital Lifeline
Perhaps most importantly is that physical reconstruction by itself does not address the emotional wounds caused by permanent disabilities. Studies shows that survivors often find social networks to be more immediate than government assistance.
“The government’s role is important,” Smith acknowledges. “When it is lacking, or when it is delayed, neighbors keep each other whole.”
Ifill notes the value of community solidarity in overcoming challenges. She says she was “impressed by the resilient spirit” among strong communities. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has more jovial people, they make jokes about the storm.”
Additionally, she praises steps to encourage psychological self-care after the disaster but advises about the negative effects of consuming endless negative news. “My advice was limiting social media, following official updates, and leveraging technology to stay in touch with loved ones.”
An Increasing Regional Priority
In recent years, mental health has garnered greater attention from world bodies due to the escalating planetary changes. The increasing frequency of extreme weather has catalyzed the development of frameworks for trauma support.
Major health organizations have developed detailed resources to assist responders in offering psychosocial support in the immediate period of traumatic events. These projects aim to foster psychological fortitude by educating caregivers, promoting openness, and promoting the seeking of professional help.
Economic aid are also highlighted as crucial for protecting emotional well-being. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a past disaster, emphasizes the despair that arises when expected aid fails to materialize. “Officials visited... But up to this day, we never got any payment,” he states.
A Call for Comprehensive Rebuilding
Experts argue that the Caribbean region accounts for a very small fraction of planetary pollution yet suffers disastrous climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed essential to mitigate enduring trauma.
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