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When the devastating cyclone ravaged Jamaica on the 28th of October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it resulted in a scene of utter destruction. Residences, hospitals, and critical infrastructure were leveled, causing the tragic loss of 32 lives and impacting an approximate 1.5 million individuals. For mental health expert Toni-Jan Ifill, it was immediately clear that the material damage would be accompanied by profound and enduring psychological scars.

“Simple occurrences can activate them,” Ifill explains. “An individual spoke of a trolley we often move through the passageways, whose clatter sounded like breaking wood and the fierce gales. She has become averse to hearing that sound.”

A month and a half after the hurricane, which also impacted eastern Cuba, memories of the frightening storm continue to haunt a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of falling rain can now elicit panic among individuals who endured it.

The Hidden Toll Alongside Financial Losses

This disaster resulted in a significant financial package totaling up to $6.7bn over several years and an extra disbursement of millions from a groundbreaking disaster insurance instrument. Yet, authorities note this economic assistance fails to account for the unseen cost: extensive emotional suffering—especially among those previously affected from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.

Although most attention targets rebuilding infrastructure, research over the last several years indicate that the risk of severe anxiety disorders rises substantially after hurricanes and displacement. Experts are now advocating for the inclusion of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across small island developing states.

Increased Risks: Insecurity and Psychological Well-being

Scholars stress how prolonged homelessness, destroyed jobs, and poor access to care amplify emotional distress. A recent regional study flagged a clear threat of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after climate-related events. Further research found comparable psychological turmoil among people affected by tropical cyclones.

Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has examined disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors could face three primary emotional obstacles: severe stress and mood disorders.

Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a scholar in risk reduction, concurs. She observes that while individuals can be strong, as the planet continues to warm, emotional fallout is becoming an increasingly significant issue—even though detailed prevalence surveys is still lacking.

Both Smith and Heanoy found that female survivors experienced higher mental distress than men. “It indicates that women are more susceptible than males in such catastrophes,” Smith says.

The Long Road to Psychological Repair

Dr. Heanoy says that while some initial improvement in mental health can happen within a year, the lasting effects remain uncertain. The extent to which survivors heal hinges on the specific triggers and the support available.

The experts see that the loss of homes and resources can magnify the emotional challenge to recover. Smith describes housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” especially when people have no economic cushion. “Starting again comes with its own mental burden,” she adds.

Ifill witnesses the same pattern among her those seeking help: “People who had pre-existing mental health challenges have found it’s significantly worse in this short period of time.”

Apart from the mental damage, tangible issues continue. The hurricane destroyed critical water infrastructure, hampering the reliable supply of water services. Financial aid, while crucial, cannot resolve the deep-seated infrastructure problems exposed by the storm.

Social Support as a Essential Lifeline

A key finding is that material recovery cannot heal the psychological injuries caused by the loss of loved ones. Research indicates that survivors commonly experience help from neighbors to be more effective than bureaucratic help.

“The government’s role is crucial,” Smith says. “When it is lacking, or when it is inefficient, neighbors provide mutual aid.”

Ifill similarly praises the value of community solidarity in coping with disaster. She notes she was “struck by the sense of humour” among resilient populations. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has a supportive culture, they find lightness about the storm.”

Additionally, she praises initiatives to promote mental health awareness after the disaster but cautions about the negative effects of consuming endless negative news. “I recommended reducing screen time, trusting verified sources, and using messaging apps to connect with family.”

An Increasing Global Recognition

Over the past decade, psychological support has received more focus from world bodies due to the intensifying climate emergency. The rising occurrence of hurricanes has led to the development of frameworks for mental health response.

Regional institutions have published comprehensive manuals to train field workers in providing psychological care in the aftermath of traumatic events. These projects aim to build psychological fortitude by training professionals, promoting openness, and encouraging the use of mental health services.

Financial aid are also identified as crucial for protecting mental health. A farmer from another Caribbean nation, who lost all his crops in a similar event, emphasizes the frustration that arises when expected aid fails to materialize. “Officials visited... But up to this day, we did not receive the promised help,” he recounts.

An Appeal for Integrated Healing

Leaders note that the Caribbean region contributes a tiny fraction of planetary pollution yet suffers disproportionate climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed critical to mitigate chronic psychological damage.

“The current situation and our systems do not match|cor