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When the powerful Category 5 storm ravaged Jamaica on October 28th with 185-mile-per-hour winds, it resulted in a scene of utter destruction. Dwellings, hospitals, and critical infrastructure were destroyed, causing 32 deaths and affecting an staggering 1.5 million people. For mental health expert Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the tangible destruction would be accompanied by profound and long-term traumatic memories.

“Simple things can trigger them,” Ifill explains. “A patient described a trolley we often roll through the passageways, whose clatter sounded like splintering trees and the howling wind. She has become averse to experiencing that auditory reminder.”

Over six weeks after the storm, which also impacted neighboring Cuba, flashbacks of the terrifying winds continue to trouble a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Simply the noise of rain can now prompt trauma responses among survivors.

The Hidden Toll Beyond Economic Reconstruction

This disaster led to a massive recovery package worth up to $6.7 billion over three years and an additional payment of $150 million from a innovative disaster insurance instrument. But, experts warn this monetary aid cannot cover the invisible cost: widespread trauma—especially among those who had been recovering from another major storm in 2024.

While the primary focus targets rebuilding infrastructure, studies over the last several years show that the likelihood of severe anxiety disorders grows markedly after major storms and displacement. Researchers are now calling for the integration of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across small island developing states.

Layered Struggles: Insecurity and Mental Health

Scholars highlight how long-term dislocation, loss of livelihoods, and insufficient support amplify mental health risks. A 2023 Caribbean-focused paper warned of a clear threat of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after climate-related events. Further research documented parallel fear, anxiety, and distress among people affected by tropical cyclones.

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

Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a scholar in risk reduction, agrees. She points out that while individuals can be strong, as the planet continues to warm, emotional fallout is becoming an ever more critical issue—despite the fact that detailed prevalence surveys is often insufficient.

Both Smith and Heanoy found that female survivors showed greater psychological suffering than men. “So it’s quite possible women are more susceptible than males when disaster strikes,” Smith says.

The Long Road to Healing

Dr. Heanoy says that while some initial improvement in well-being may occur within a year, the ultimate prognosis can be unpredictable. The degree to which survivors bounce back hinges on the specific triggers and the care they receive.

The experts observe that the loss of homes and possessions can magnify the mental struggle to rebuild. Smith describes housing loss “a major source of stress,” particularly when insurance or savings are lacking. “Rebuilding comes with its own emotional tax,” she says.

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

In addition to the emotional impact, physical issues remain. The hurricane wiped out critical water infrastructure, slowing the full return of clean water. Financial aid, while helpful, cannot resolve the systemic weaknesses revealed by the storm.

Community Support as a Essential Foundation

Critically is that physical reconstruction by itself fails to mend the emotional wounds caused by the loss of loved ones. Research indicates that survivors commonly experience community support to be more responsive than official aid.

“Official action is essential,” Smith says. “In its absence, or when it is delayed, local people keep each other whole.”

Ifill also highlights the strength of social bonds in navigating hardship. She says she was “impressed by the positive attitude” among resilient populations. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a supportive culture, they make jokes about the storm.”

She further acknowledges steps to promote emotional well-being after the disaster but cautions about the harms of doomscrolling. “My advice was curating news intake, sticking to reliable news, and using messaging apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”

An Increasing Regional Priority

Recently, mental health has received more focus from international agencies due to the intensifying climate crisis. The increasing frequency of extreme weather has led to the development of tools for psychological first aid.

Regional institutions have developed practical guides to train field workers in offering psychological care in the aftermath of catastrophes. These efforts aim to foster individual and social resilience by training professionals, promoting openness, and encouraging the seeking of professional help.

Monetary support are also highlighted as fundamental for safeguarding psychological recovery. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a previous flood, highlights the despair that arises when official support is not delivered. “Assessments were made... But to this date, we never got compensation,” he says.

An Appeal for Comprehensive Rebuilding

Experts argue that the Caribbean region accounts for a tiny fraction of global emissions yet suffers extreme climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed essential to prevent chronic psychological damage.

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