When Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica on the 28th of October with ferocious 185mph gusts, it left behind a scene of catastrophic damage. Residences, hospitals, and critical infrastructure were destroyed, resulting in 32 fatalities and affecting an estimated 1.5 million individuals. For clinical psychologist Toni-Jan Ifill, it was obvious from the start that the physical wreckage would be paired with profound and long-term traumatic memories.
“Everyday occurrences can trigger them,” Ifill explains. “An individual spoke of a cart we often move through the halls, whose noise reminded her of splintering trees and the roaring storm. She no longer wants to experiencing that particular noise.”
Weeks after the hurricane, which also impacted 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. Even the sound of a downpour can now elicit panic among those who lived through it.
The Psychological Price Beyond Economic Reconstruction
The catastrophic event triggered a substantial financial package worth up to up to $6.7bn over three years and an further payout of $150m from a innovative risk financing tool. However, authorities note this monetary aid cannot cover the unseen cost: widespread trauma—notably among those previously affected from Hurricane Beryl in 2024.
Although the lion's share of effort targets rebuilding infrastructure, studies over the past three years show that the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increases markedly after climate disasters and losing one's home. Mental health professionals are now urging the inclusion of psychosocial services into disaster response plans across the region.
Layered Struggles: Loss and Mental Health
Scholars highlight how long-term dislocation, loss of livelihoods, and inadequate services amplify emotional distress. A scholarly article flagged a significant risk of anxiety, depression, and PTSD after climate-related events. Another study found parallel fear, anxiety, and distress among people displaced by tropical cyclones.
Dr. Eamin Heanoy, a academic who has studied disaster survivors worldwide, notes that survivors often encounter three primary mental health challenges: PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
Dr. Rose-Ann Smith, a professor in geography and disaster risk management, concurs. She observes that while individuals can be strong, as the climate crisis worsens, emotional fallout is becoming an increasingly significant issue—although comprehensive data is still lacking.
The researchers found that female survivors showed greater psychological suffering than men. “It indicates that women are more susceptible than males in such catastrophes,” Smith comments.
The Difficult Journey to Recovery
Dr. Heanoy notes that while some early progress in well-being can happen within a twelve-month period, the lasting effects can be unpredictable. The likelihood to which survivors recover depends heavily on the circumstances of their suffering and the care they receive.
The experts see that the destruction of property and livelihoods can intensify the emotional challenge to rebuild. Smith calls housing loss “one of the primary stressors,” especially when insurance or savings are lacking. “Starting again comes with its own emotional tax,” she says.
Ifill witnesses the identical trend among her clients: “Individuals who had previous psychological issues have reported it’s far more intense in this aftermath.”
In addition to the psychological toll, physical issues persist. The hurricane destroyed critical water infrastructure, hampering the complete restoration of potable water. Financial aid, while crucial, are insufficient to fix the systemic weaknesses laid bare by the storm.
Social Cohesion as a Vital Lifeline
A key finding is that rebuilding alone fails to mend the psychological injuries caused by life-altering injuries. Studies indicates that survivors frequently report help from neighbors to be more responsive than bureaucratic help.
“The government’s role is important,” Smith acknowledges. “When it is lacking, or when it is inefficient, local people keep each other whole.”
Ifill similarly praises the value of social bonds in coping with disaster. She recalls being “moved by the sense of humour” among strong communities. “Everything is destroyed, right? But if a community has a positive outlook, they share laughter about the storm.”
She further acknowledges steps to promote emotional well-being after the disaster but warns about the harms of doomscrolling. “My advice was reducing screen time, following official updates, and turning to apps to connect with family.”
A Growing Global Recognition
In recent years, psychosocial care has become a higher priority from international agencies due to the escalating climate emergency. The rising occurrence of extreme weather has prompted the development of tools for psychological first aid.
Major health organizations have published detailed resources to train responders in delivering psychosocial support in the wake of catastrophes. These projects aim to build psychological fortitude by building capacity, reducing shame, and encouraging the seeking of professional help.
Financial resources are also identified as crucial for preserving emotional well-being. A producer from another Caribbean nation, who lost everything in a similar event, emphasizes the despair that arises when promised compensation is not delivered. “Assessments were made... But to this date, we never got the promised help,” he says.
An Appeal for Integrated Recovery
Experts note that the Caribbean region is responsible for a tiny fraction of planetary pollution yet suffers disproportionate climate impacts. A timely and comprehensive reconstruction is deemed vital to avoid prolonged suffering.
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