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When the devastating cyclone made landfall on Jamaica on October 28th with winds of 185mph, it resulted in a landscape of catastrophic damage. Residences, medical facilities, and critical infrastructure were severely compromised, resulting in 32 deaths and impacting an staggering 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 long-term traumatic memories.

“Commonplace occurrences can activate them,” Ifill states. “An individual described a trolley we often move through the corridors, whose sound evoked memories of splintering trees and the fierce gales. She now refuses to hearing that auditory reminder.”

Weeks after the storm, which also impacted neighboring Cuba, flashbacks of the horrific event continue to haunt many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of rain can now cause trauma responses among individuals who endured it.

The Hidden Toll Beyond Economic Reconstruction

The catastrophic event led to a substantial recovery package totaling billions of dollars over several years and an further disbursement of $150 million from a innovative risk financing tool. But, specialists caution this financial relief fails to account for the unseen cost: widespread trauma—notably among those who had been recovering from a previous disaster in 2024.

While most attention centers on rebuilding infrastructure, research over the recent years show that the risk of PTSD grows substantially after climate disasters and forced relocation. Researchers are now advocating for the inclusion of psychological care into climate-disaster policy across the region.

Increased Risks: Displacement and Mental Health

Researchers emphasize how long-term dislocation, vanishing incomes, and insufficient support worsen psychological vulnerabilities. A 2023 Caribbean-focused paper warned of a heightened danger of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after climate-related events. Additional analysis recorded comparable psychological turmoil among people who survived tropical cyclones.

Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has analyzed disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors often encounter a trio of mental health challenges: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in risk reduction, concurs. She observes that while people are often tough, as the climate crisis worsens, psychological well-being is becoming an increasingly significant issue—although comprehensive data is not widely available.

Both Smith and Heanoy found that women reported higher mental distress than male counterparts. “This suggests women are more susceptible than males in such catastrophes,” Smith explains.

The Uncertain Path to Psychological Repair

Dr. Heanoy notes that while some initial improvement in psychological state is often seen within a year, the lasting effects remain uncertain. The extent to which survivors heal is largely determined by the specific triggers and the resources accessible.

The experts see that the loss of homes and possessions can heighten the mental struggle to rebuild. Smith calls housing loss “a major source of stress,” notably when people have no economic cushion. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she adds.

Ifill sees the identical trend among her patients: “Those who had previous psychological issues have noticed it’s much more severe in this aftermath.”

In addition to the psychological impact, physical issues persist. The hurricane severely damaged critical water infrastructure, hampering the reliable supply of clean water. Financial aid, while necessary, cannot resolve the deep-seated infrastructure problems revealed by the storm.

Grassroots Cohesion as a Critical Foundation

A key finding is that material recovery does not address the psychological injuries caused by permanent disabilities. Research shows that survivors frequently report community support to be more responsive than official aid.

“The government’s role is essential,” Smith states. “When it is lacking, or when it is slow, communities keep each other whole.”

Ifill notes the power of mutual support in overcoming challenges. She recalls being “impressed by the sense of humour” among tight-knit groups. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has a supportive culture, they make jokes about the storm.”

Ifill also praises steps to promote psychological self-care after the disaster but advises about the harms of consuming endless negative news. “The guidance included curating news intake, trusting verified sources, and leveraging technology to stay in touch with loved ones.”

A Growing Global Recognition

Over the past decade, psychosocial care has received more focus from global organizations 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 comprehensive manuals to train field workers in offering psychological care in the wake of catastrophes. These efforts aim to build psychological fortitude by educating caregivers, combating stigma, and promoting the use of mental health services.

Monetary resources are also underlined as crucial for protecting mental health. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a similar event, stresses the frustration that arises when promised compensation fails to materialize. “Officials visited... But to this date, we never got any payment,” he says.

An Appeal for Holistic Healing

Experts note that the Caribbean region accounts for a tiny fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet endures disastrous climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed vital to avoid enduring trauma.

“Our reality and our systems do not match|cor