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When the powerful Category 5 storm struck Jamaica on 28 October with 185-mile-per-hour winds, it caused a picture of widespread ruin. Homes, hospitals, and vital systems were severely compromised, resulting in 32 deaths and disrupting the lives of an approximate 1.5 million individuals. For mental health expert Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the material damage would be shadowed by profound and persistent emotional wounds.

“Simple occurrences can provoke them,” Ifill states. “An individual spoke of a trolley we often roll through the passageways, whose sound sounded like breaking wood and the howling wind. She has become averse to experiencing that particular noise.”

Weeks after the hurricane, which also impacted 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 prompt panic among individuals who endured it.

The Unseen Cost Amidst Economic Reconstruction

This disaster led to a substantial recovery package worth up to billions of dollars over a three-year period and an further disbursement of millions from a pioneering disaster insurance instrument. But, experts warn this monetary aid fails to account for the unseen cost: widespread trauma—notably among those still recovering from another major storm in 2024.

Although the lion's share of effort is directed toward physical reconstruction, research over the recent years demonstrate that the likelihood of severe anxiety disorders increases markedly after major storms and losing one's home. Experts are now calling for the incorporation of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across Caribbean nations.

Increased Risks: Insecurity and Psychological Well-being

Academics stress how extended displacement, destroyed jobs, and poor access to care worsen mental health risks. A recent regional study warned of a clear threat of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after extreme weather. Additional analysis documented parallel anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people displaced by other hurricanes.

Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has examined disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors typically experience three primary emotional obstacles: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in disaster studies, concurs. She observes that while humans are generally resilient, as the climate crisis worsens, mental health is becoming an increasingly significant issue—even though extensive research is not widely available.

These experts found that female survivors experienced higher mental distress than men. “This suggests women are more psychologically vulnerable than males in such catastrophes,” Smith comments.

The Long Road to Recovery

Dr. Heanoy states that while some initial improvement in mental health may occur within a year, long-term outcomes are still unclear. The likelihood to which survivors bounce back depends heavily on the circumstances of their suffering and the care they receive.

The experts see that the destruction of property and livelihoods can heighten the emotional challenge to start over. Smith calls housing loss “a major source of stress,” especially when insurance or savings are lacking. “Reconstruction comes with its own mental burden,” she emphasizes.

Ifill witnesses the parallel situation among her clients: “People who had mental health conditions before have noticed it’s far more intense in this aftermath.”

Beyond the mental impact, tangible problems continue. The hurricane wiped out key water infrastructure, hampering the complete restoration of potable water. Financial aid, while crucial, are insufficient to fix the deep-seated infrastructure problems revealed by the storm.

Social Networks as a Essential Lifeline

A key finding is that material recovery does not address the psychological injuries caused by the loss of loved ones. Studies shows that survivors frequently report social networks to be more immediate than government assistance.

“The government’s role is crucial,” Smith says. “If it fails to materialize, or when it is inefficient, neighbors keep each other whole.”

Ifill similarly praises the strength of social bonds in coping with disaster. She says she was “impressed by the sense of humour” among tight-knit groups. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has more jovial people, they make jokes about the storm.”

Ifill also acknowledges steps to promote mental health awareness after the disaster but warns about the negative effects of doomscrolling. “The guidance included curating news intake, trusting verified sources, and leveraging technology to maintain social support.”

An Increasing Regional Priority

Recently, psychosocial care has garnered greater attention from world bodies due to the worsening climate emergency. The increasing frequency of extreme weather has prompted the development of tools for mental health response.

International bodies have published comprehensive manuals to help aid personnel in offering psychological care in the aftermath of catastrophes. These initiatives aim to foster individual and social resilience by educating caregivers, combating stigma, and facilitating the access to psychological care.

Monetary aid are also highlighted as key for preserving psychological recovery. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a past disaster, highlights the despair that arises when promised compensation never arrives. “Officials visited... But even now, we were not granted any payment,” he states.

A Plea for Integrated Healing

Analysts note that the Caribbean region is responsible for a very small fraction of planetary pollution yet endures extreme climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed critical to prevent prolonged suffering.

“Our reality and our infrastructure do not match|cor