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When the devastating cyclone struck Jamaica on the 28th of October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it left behind a picture of widespread ruin. Residences, hospitals, and vital systems were leveled, resulting in 32 deaths and impacting an estimated 1.5 million individuals. For mental health expert Toni-Jan Ifill, it was instantly apparent that the tangible destruction would be shadowed by profound and enduring psychological scars.

“Everyday sounds can activate them,” Ifill states. “One woman spoke of a cart we often roll through the corridors, whose sound reminded her of breaking wood and the fierce gales. She has become averse to experiencing that auditory reminder.”

Weeks after the hurricane, which also impacted neighboring Cuba, recollections of the frightening storm continue to haunt many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of falling rain can now elicit stress reactions among individuals who endured it.

The Unseen Cost Amidst Economic Reconstruction

This disaster resulted in a significant recovery package worth up to up to $6.7bn over three years and an extra payout of $150 million from a groundbreaking risk financing tool. Yet, authorities note this monetary aid cannot cover the unseen cost: widespread trauma—notably among those still recovering from another major storm in 2024.

While the primary focus targets physical reconstruction, academic work over the past three years demonstrate that the likelihood of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increases markedly after hurricanes and displacement. Mental health professionals are now calling for the integration of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across Caribbean nations.

Compounded Vulnerabilities: Displacement and Mental Health

Researchers highlight how long-term dislocation, destroyed jobs, and inadequate services worsen mental health risks. A scholarly article flagged a clear threat of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after natural disasters. Further research documented comparable fear, anxiety, and distress among people who survived tropical cyclones.

Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has analyzed disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors could face a trio of emotional obstacles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in risk reduction, echoes this view. She observes that while humans are generally resilient, as the planet continues to warm, psychological well-being is becoming an increasingly significant issue—although detailed prevalence surveys is often insufficient.

These experts found that women affected showed higher mental distress than men. “So it’s quite possible women are more susceptible than males in such catastrophes,” Smith comments.

The Uncertain Path to Psychological Repair

Dr. Heanoy states that while some short-term recovery in well-being is often seen within a year of the event, the ultimate prognosis remain uncertain. The extent to which survivors bounce back depends heavily on the circumstances of their suffering and the support available.

The experts observe that the destruction of property and resources can magnify the mental struggle to start over. Smith calls housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” especially when people have no economic cushion. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she says.

Ifill witnesses the parallel situation among her those seeking help: “People who had previous psychological issues have reported it’s significantly worse in this time since the storm.”

Apart from the emotional toll, practical issues remain. The hurricane wiped out vital water infrastructure, slowing the reliable supply of clean water. Insurance payouts, while crucial, are insufficient to fix the deep-seated infrastructure problems exposed by the storm.

Grassroots Cohesion as a Vital Pillar

A key finding is that material recovery does not address the deep sorrow caused by life-altering injuries. Studies consistently finds that survivors frequently report help from neighbors to be more responsive than government assistance.

“State support is important,” Smith states. “When it is lacking, or when it is inefficient, communities keep each other whole.”

Ifill similarly praises the strength of mutual support in coping with disaster. She says she was “struck by the sense of humour” among resilient populations. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a supportive culture, they make jokes about the storm.”

Additionally, she commends steps to support psychological self-care after the disaster but cautions about the negative effects of constant exposure to traumatic media. “I recommended limiting social media, following official updates, and using messaging apps to connect with family.”

A Growing Global Recognition

Over the past decade, psychosocial care has garnered greater attention from global organizations due to the intensifying climate crisis. The growing regularity of climate disasters has catalyzed the development of tools for psychological first aid.

Regional institutions have published comprehensive manuals to assist responders in providing psychological care in the wake of disasters. These efforts aim to build psychological fortitude by training professionals, promoting openness, and facilitating the access to psychological care.

Monetary support are also highlighted as key for protecting psychological recovery. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost everything in a previous flood, highlights the hopelessness that arises when promised compensation never arrives. “Assessments were made... But up to this day, we never got compensation,” he states.

A Call for Holistic Recovery

Analysts note that the Caribbean region contributes a very small fraction of global emissions yet suffers extreme climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed essential to prevent chronic psychological damage.

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