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When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on the 28th of October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it left behind a landscape of widespread ruin. Homes, medical facilities, and vital systems were severely compromised, leading to 32 fatalities and affecting an estimated 1.5 million individuals. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the material damage would be paired with profound and long-term traumatic memories.

“Everyday occurrences can provoke them,” Ifill states. “A patient described a wheeled bin we often move through the halls, whose clatter reminded her of breaking wood and the roaring storm. She has become averse to hearing that particular noise.”

Over six weeks after the hurricane, which also impacted eastern Cuba, memories of the horrific event continue to haunt many staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of falling rain can now cause stress reactions among survivors.

The Hidden Toll Amidst Billions in Damage

The catastrophic event resulted in a substantial aid package worth up to $6.7 billion over three years and an further disbursement of millions from a pioneering risk financing tool. But, experts warn this economic assistance fails to account for the unseen cost: pervasive mental health crises—notably among those who had been recovering from another major storm in 2024.

While most attention centers on restoring buildings, studies over the last several years demonstrate that the likelihood of severe anxiety disorders rises substantially after major storms and displacement. Experts are now calling for the inclusion of mental health support into disaster response plans across Caribbean nations.

Increased Risks: Insecurity and Psychological Well-being

Researchers stress how extended displacement, destroyed jobs, and poor access to care amplify emotional distress. A recent regional study identified a significant risk of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after natural disasters. Further research recorded parallel anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people who survived tropical cyclones.

Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has studied disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors could face several key mental health challenges: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in disaster studies, echoes this view. She points out that while individuals can be strong, as the climate crisis worsens, psychological well-being is becoming an increasingly significant issue—although detailed prevalence surveys is often insufficient.

The researchers found that women experienced more severe emotional impact than men. “So it’s quite possible women are more psychologically vulnerable than males when disaster strikes,” Smith says.

The Long Road to Healing

Dr. Heanoy says that while some short-term recovery in psychological state may occur within a year, long-term outcomes remain uncertain. The likelihood to which survivors heal is largely determined by the circumstances of their suffering and the care they receive.

The experts observe that the destruction of property and livelihoods can intensify the psychological burden to recover. Smith describes housing loss “a key traumatic factor,” especially when financial safety nets are absent. “Reconstruction comes with its own emotional tax,” she emphasizes.

Ifill sees the same pattern among her those seeking help: “Individuals who had pre-existing mental health challenges have found it’s far more intense in this short period of time.”

In addition to the emotional impact, tangible issues persist. The hurricane destroyed key water infrastructure, hampering the complete restoration of clean water. Monetary relief, while necessary, are insufficient to fix the deep-seated infrastructure problems exposed by the storm.

Social Networks as a Essential Foundation

Critically is that physical reconstruction by itself does not address the emotional wounds caused by life-altering injuries. Studies consistently finds that survivors frequently report social networks to be more responsive than bureaucratic help.

“Official action is essential,” Smith states. “When it is lacking, or when it is slow, local people provide mutual aid.”

Ifill notes the value of mutual support in coping with disaster. She recalls being “struck by the sense of humour” among tight-knit groups. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has more jovial people, they share laughter about the storm.”

Additionally, she praises efforts to encourage psychological self-care after the disaster but warns about the harms of doomscrolling. “My advice was reducing screen time, sticking to reliable news, and using messaging apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”

A Growing Global Recognition

Over the past decade, psychological support has received more focus from international agencies due to the worsening climate crisis. The rising occurrence of extreme weather has catalyzed the development of frameworks for mental health response.

Major health organizations have developed practical guides to assist responders in providing psychosocial support in the wake of catastrophes. These efforts aim to strengthen community and personal strength by building capacity, combating stigma, and encouraging the access to psychological care.

Financial resources are also highlighted as crucial for preserving emotional well-being. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost everything in a previous flood, highlights the hopelessness that arises when expected aid is not delivered. “Assessments were made... But even now, we did not receive any payment,” he says.

A Plea for Holistic Recovery

Experts note that the Caribbean region is responsible for a minuscule fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet suffers extreme climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed critical to prevent prolonged suffering.

“Our reality and our systems do not match|cor