When the devastating cyclone struck Jamaica on the 28th of October with winds of 185mph, it resulted in a landscape of catastrophic damage. Residences, healthcare centers, and critical infrastructure were leveled, causing 32 deaths and disrupting the lives of an estimated 1.5 million people. For mental health expert Toni-Jan Ifill, it was instantly apparent that the physical wreckage would be shadowed by profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Everyday sounds can trigger them,” Ifill states. “One woman spoke of a cart we often move through the corridors, whose noise sounded like cracking branches and the roaring storm. She no longer wants to experiencing that particular noise.”
Over six weeks after the storm, which also impacted parts of Cuba, memories of the frightening storm continue to affect many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of falling rain can now cause trauma responses among those who lived through it.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Billions in Damage
Hurricane Melissa resulted in a massive recovery package valued at billions of dollars over three years and an additional disbursement of millions from a pioneering catastrophe bond. Yet, authorities note this monetary aid does not address the unseen cost: pervasive mental health crises—especially among those previously affected from another major storm in 2024.
While most attention targets restoring buildings, studies over the recent years show that the likelihood of severe anxiety disorders grows markedly after climate disasters and losing one's home. Researchers are now calling for the integration of psychological care into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Insecurity and Psychological Well-being
Academics emphasize how prolonged homelessness, vanishing incomes, and inadequate services amplify emotional distress. A recent regional study warned of a heightened danger of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after extreme weather. Further research found parallel fear, anxiety, and distress among people who survived tropical cyclones.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has examined disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors could face a trio of psychological hurdles: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in disaster studies, echoes this view. She notes that while people are often tough, as the planet continues to warm, emotional fallout is becoming an increasingly significant issue—even though comprehensive data is not widely available.
These experts found that female survivors reported more severe emotional impact than men. “This suggests women are more psychologically vulnerable than males during these events,” Smith comments.
The Difficult Journey to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy says that while some short-term recovery in well-being may occur within a year, the ultimate prognosis can be unpredictable. The likelihood to which survivors bounce back depends heavily on the nature of the trauma and the support available.
The experts see that the destruction of property and resources can heighten the emotional challenge to rebuild. Smith describes housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” especially when financial safety nets are absent. “Rebuilding comes with its own psychological weight,” she emphasizes.
Ifill witnesses the same pattern among her clients: “People who had previous psychological issues have found it’s far more intense in this short period of time.”
Apart from the emotional damage, physical problems remain. The hurricane wiped out key water infrastructure, hampering the complete restoration of water services. Monetary relief, while necessary, are insufficient to fix the systemic weaknesses revealed by the storm.
Community Networks as a Essential Foundation
Perhaps most importantly is that material recovery fails to mend the emotional wounds caused by the loss of loved ones. Research indicates that survivors often find community support to be more responsive than official aid.
“Official action is important,” Smith says. “When it is lacking, or when it is inefficient, local people provide mutual aid.”
Ifill notes the power of social bonds in coping with disaster. She notes she was “impressed by the positive attitude” among resilient populations. “Everything is destroyed, right? But if a community has more jovial people, they share laughter about the storm.”
Ifill also commends steps to encourage emotional well-being after the disaster but cautions about the dangers of doomscrolling. “The guidance included reducing screen time, sticking to reliable news, and leveraging technology to stay in touch with loved ones.”
An Increasing Regional Priority
In recent years, mental health has garnered greater attention from global organizations due to the escalating planetary changes. The increasing frequency of extreme weather has prompted the development of guidelines for trauma support.
Major health organizations have released comprehensive manuals to train responders in offering psychological care in the wake of catastrophes. These projects aim to build community and personal strength by building capacity, reducing shame, and promoting the use of mental health services.
Monetary resources are also underlined as fundamental for protecting psychological recovery. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a previous flood, highlights the hopelessness that arises when expected aid never arrives. “Officials visited... But even now, we did not receive compensation,” he states.
An Appeal for Integrated Rebuilding
Experts argue that the Caribbean region is responsible for a very small fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet endures disproportionate climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed essential to avoid prolonged suffering.
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