When the powerful Category 5 storm made landfall on Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it resulted in a scene of utter destruction. Residences, medical facilities, and vital systems were severely compromised, leading to 32 deaths and impacting an staggering 1.5 million. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the material damage would be accompanied by profound and enduring psychological scars.
“Everyday sounds can trigger them,” Ifill notes. “One woman described a cart we often move through the corridors, whose clatter reminded her of breaking wood and the roaring storm. She no longer wants to listening to that sound.”
Weeks after the storm, which also affected neighboring Cuba, recollections of the frightening storm continue to affect some staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. Even the sound of falling rain can now cause panic among those who lived through it.
The Unseen Cost Beyond Billions in Damage
Hurricane Melissa triggered a substantial aid package valued at $6.7 billion over several years and an extra payout of $150 million from a pioneering catastrophe bond. But, experts warn this financial relief does not address the invisible cost: widespread trauma—notably among those who had been recovering from another major storm in 2024.
While the primary focus targets restoring buildings, studies over the recent years indicate that the risk of PTSD grows substantially after climate disasters and forced relocation. Mental health professionals are now advocating for the integration of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Insecurity and Emotional Stability
Researchers emphasize how extended displacement, loss of livelihoods, and insufficient support exacerbate mental health risks. A scholarly article flagged a significant risk of severe mental health issues after natural disasters. Another study found comparable anxiety, fear, and emotional distress among people displaced by previous storms.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a expert who has studied disaster survivors globally, notes that survivors could face three primary psychological hurdles: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in disaster studies, echoes this view. She points out that while individuals can be strong, as the planet continues to warm, psychological well-being is becoming an ever more critical issue—even though detailed prevalence surveys is often insufficient.
Both Smith and Heanoy found that female survivors reported higher mental distress than male counterparts. “It indicates that women are more susceptible than males when disaster strikes,” Smith explains.
The Difficult Journey to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some early progress in well-being is often seen within a year, the lasting effects remain uncertain. The degree to which survivors bounce back hinges 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 “a key traumatic factor,” particularly when financial safety nets are absent. “Starting again comes with its own emotional tax,” she emphasizes.
Ifill witnesses the identical trend among her those seeking help: “Those who had previous psychological issues have reported it’s significantly worse in this short period of time.”
In addition to the emotional damage, practical issues continue. The hurricane severely damaged critical water infrastructure, slowing the reliable supply of clean water. Financial aid, while helpful, do not address all of the deep-seated infrastructure problems revealed by the storm.
Social Cohesion as a Critical Foundation
Perhaps most importantly is that physical reconstruction by itself fails to mend the emotional wounds caused by life-altering injuries. Expert analysis consistently finds that survivors frequently report help from neighbors to be more effective than government assistance.
“State support is essential,” Smith states. “When it is lacking, or when it is inefficient, local people keep each other whole.”
Ifill notes the strength of mutual support in overcoming challenges. She recalls being “struck by the positive attitude” among tight-knit groups. “Your house is gone, right? But if a community has more jovial people, they make jokes about the storm.”
Ifill also commends steps to encourage mental health awareness after the disaster but cautions about the negative effects of consuming endless negative news. “I recommended reducing screen time, following official updates, and turning to apps to stay in touch with loved ones.”
An Expanding International Focus
Over the past decade, psychosocial care has garnered greater attention from international agencies due to the escalating climate emergency. The rising occurrence of hurricanes has catalyzed the development of tools for mental health response.
Major health organizations have published practical guides to train responders in delivering psychosocial support in the aftermath of disasters. These efforts aim to foster community and personal strength by building capacity, promoting openness, and facilitating the use of mental health services.
Economic support are also underlined as fundamental for protecting psychological recovery. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost his livelihood in a past disaster, stresses the frustration that arises when official support is not delivered. “Assessments were made... But to this date, we were not granted any payment,” he recounts.
A Plea for Comprehensive Rebuilding
Experts observe that the Caribbean region contributes a minuscule fraction of worldwide greenhouse gases yet bears disproportionate climate impacts. A rapid and adequately resourced rebuilding is deemed essential to avoid prolonged suffering.
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