When the devastating cyclone struck Jamaica on 28 October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it caused a picture of catastrophic damage. Homes, medical facilities, and critical infrastructure were leveled, resulting in 32 deaths and impacting an estimated 1.5 million. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the tangible destruction would be shadowed by profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Everyday things can trigger them,” Ifill explains. “An individual mentioned a trolley we often move through the passageways, whose clatter reminded her of splintering trees and the fierce gales. She has become averse to experiencing that auditory reminder.”
A month and a half after the storm, which also struck parts of Cuba, recollections of the frightening storm continue to trouble some staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of falling rain can now elicit stress reactions among survivors.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Economic Reconstruction
Hurricane Melissa resulted in a significant aid package totaling $6.7 billion over a three-year period and an additional payment of $150m from a pioneering disaster insurance instrument. Yet, authorities note this financial relief cannot cover the unseen cost: widespread trauma—especially among those still recovering from a previous disaster in 2024.
Whereas the primary focus targets rebuilding infrastructure, research over the past three years demonstrate that the probability of severe anxiety disorders increases markedly after hurricanes and displacement. Researchers are now advocating for the inclusion of psychological care into national recovery strategies across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Insecurity and Psychological Well-being
Scholars stress how prolonged homelessness, loss of livelihoods, and inadequate services amplify mental health risks. A recent regional study warned of a heightened danger of severe mental health issues after climate-related events. Another study recorded parallel fear, anxiety, and distress among people who survived tropical cyclones.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a academic who has studied disaster survivors in multiple countries, notes that survivors could face three primary emotional obstacles: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in risk reduction, echoes this view. She points out that while people are often tough, as the planet continues to warm, mental health is becoming an increasingly significant issue—despite the fact that extensive research is still lacking.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that women experienced greater psychological suffering than men. “So it’s quite possible women are more psychologically vulnerable than males when disaster strikes,” Smith says.
The Difficult Journey to Healing
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some initial improvement in well-being is often seen within a year of the event, the lasting effects can be unpredictable. The degree to which survivors recover is largely determined by the specific triggers and the resources accessible.
The experts note that the destruction of property and livelihoods can intensify the emotional challenge to start over. Smith labels housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” particularly when financial safety nets are absent. “Reconstruction comes with its own psychological weight,” she says.
Ifill witnesses the same pattern among her those seeking help: “Those who had pre-existing mental health challenges have reported it’s much more severe in this short period of time.”
Beyond the psychological damage, physical challenges persist. The hurricane destroyed vital water infrastructure, hampering the complete restoration of potable water. Financial aid, while necessary, cannot resolve the deep-seated infrastructure problems exposed by the storm.
Community Cohesion as a Vital Lifeline
Perhaps most importantly is that physical reconstruction by itself does not address the emotional wounds caused by the loss of loved ones. Studies consistently finds that survivors frequently report social networks to be more effective than government assistance.
“Official action is essential,” Smith says. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is slow, communities support one another.”
Ifill similarly praises the power of mutual support in coping with disaster. She notes she was “struck by the positive attitude” among tight-knit groups. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they share laughter about the storm.”
Ifill also acknowledges efforts to promote emotional well-being after the disaster but warns about the harms of doomscrolling. “My advice was limiting social media, following official updates, and using messaging apps to maintain social support.”
An Increasing Regional Priority
In recent years, psychological support has become a higher priority from international agencies due to the intensifying planetary changes. The growing regularity of hurricanes has catalyzed the development of frameworks for trauma support.
International bodies have developed practical guides to train aid personnel in offering emotional aid in the aftermath of catastrophes. These efforts aim to strengthen community and personal strength by educating caregivers, promoting openness, and encouraging the seeking of professional help.
Economic resources are also underlined as fundamental for protecting mental health. A agricultural worker from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a previous flood, stresses the hopelessness that arises when official support fails to materialize. “Assessments were made... But to this date, we were not granted any payment,” he says.
A Plea for Comprehensive Healing
Experts argue that the Caribbean region contributes a tiny fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet suffers extreme climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed essential to prevent prolonged suffering.
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