When Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica on 28 October with winds of 185mph, it caused a scene of catastrophic damage. Homes, medical facilities, and critical infrastructure were leveled, leading to the tragic loss of 32 lives and disrupting the lives of an estimated 1.5 million people. For therapist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was instantly apparent that the tangible destruction would be shadowed by profound and persistent emotional wounds.
“Simple things can activate them,” Ifill states. “A patient described a trolley we often move through the halls, whose noise reminded her of splintering trees and the roaring storm. She has become averse to hearing that sound.”
Weeks after the catastrophe, which also struck parts of Cuba, memories of the horrific event continue to affect a number of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston. The mere sound of rain can now prompt panic among individuals who endured it.
The Unseen Cost Alongside Billions in Damage
The catastrophic event led to a massive recovery package worth up to $6.7 billion over a three-year period and an further payment of millions from a innovative disaster insurance instrument. Yet, experts warn this financial relief cannot cover the unseen cost: pervasive mental health crises—particularly among those still recovering from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
Whereas most attention centers on rebuilding infrastructure, research over the last several years demonstrate that the likelihood of PTSD grows significantly after hurricanes and displacement. Researchers are now advocating for the inclusion of psychological care into national recovery strategies across small island developing states.
Increased Risks: Insecurity and Psychological Well-being
Scholars emphasize how long-term dislocation, loss of livelihoods, and poor access to care amplify psychological vulnerabilities. A recent regional study warned of a heightened danger of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after natural disasters. Further research found comparable fear, anxiety, and distress among people who survived other hurricanes.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a researcher who has studied disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors often encounter a trio of mental health challenges: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a lecturer in disaster studies, echoes this view. She observes that while people are often tough, as the frequency of disasters increases, psychological well-being is becoming an major issue—even though detailed prevalence surveys is still lacking.
These experts found that female survivors reported higher mental distress than male counterparts. “This suggests women are at greater emotional risk than males during these events,” Smith says.
The Long Road to Healing
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some early progress in mental health is often seen within a year of the event, long-term outcomes are still unclear. The degree to which survivors heal depends heavily on the nature of the trauma and the support available.
The experts see that the loss of homes and livelihoods can heighten the psychological burden to recover. Smith labels housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” notably when insurance or savings are lacking. “Rebuilding comes with its own mental burden,” she says.
Ifill observes the parallel situation among her clients: “Those who had previous psychological issues have reported it’s significantly worse in this aftermath.”
Apart from the emotional impact, tangible problems continue. The hurricane severely damaged vital water infrastructure, slowing the reliable supply of water services. Financial aid, while helpful, do not address all of the systemic weaknesses exposed by the storm.
Community Support as a Essential Lifeline
Critically is that physical reconstruction by itself does not address the deep sorrow caused by life-altering injuries. Studies consistently finds that survivors frequently report help from neighbors to be more immediate than government assistance.
“The government’s role is important,” Smith says. “In its absence, or when it is inefficient, local people provide mutual aid.”
Ifill also highlights the strength of community solidarity in overcoming challenges. She notes she was “impressed by the positive attitude” among strong communities. “You've lost everything, right? But if a community has more jovial people, they find lightness about the storm.”
Additionally, she acknowledges efforts to support mental health awareness after the disaster but advises about the dangers of doomscrolling. “I recommended curating news intake, following official updates, and leveraging technology to maintain social support.”
A Growing Global Recognition
Recently, psychosocial care has received more focus from international agencies due to the escalating climate crisis. The growing regularity of extreme weather has led to the development of tools for trauma support.
International bodies have released practical guides to help field workers in delivering psychological care in the aftermath of disasters. These initiatives aim to strengthen community and personal strength by educating caregivers, promoting openness, and encouraging the use of mental health services.
Economic resources are also highlighted as key for protecting emotional well-being. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost everything in a past disaster, emphasizes the despair that arises when official support is not delivered. “They came... But to this date, we never got compensation,” he states.
An Appeal for Integrated Rebuilding
Experts argue that the Caribbean region accounts for a tiny fraction of global emissions yet endures extreme climate impacts. A swift, well-funded recovery is deemed essential to prevent prolonged suffering.
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