TRELAWNY, Jamaica — Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton, has raised concerns that not enough attention is being given to children and senior citizens in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, warning that both groups face silent but severe emotional and psychological impacts following the disaster.

Speaking to healthcare workers during a visit to the Falmouth Public General Hospital on Thursday, Tufton stressed care must be given to the emotional and mental well-being of its most vulnerable populations.

“We have to protect our children and our older population. I am concerned that we are not talking enough about our children and the impact of the disaster on our children. A child has a very fertile mind and that mind will stray if not appropriately supported and guided. And a lot of our children are still wondering what happened,” Tufton said.

He noted that children are often unable to express distress in the same way adults do and may internalise fear and confusion.

“And they may see mommy crying or daddy being disoriented trying to pick up the pieces and they might not express themselves but that don’t mean that they are not hurting,” said.

He also urged healthcare workers and trained professionals to actively use their skills to help children process the traumatic experience.

Tufton highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at providing emotional relief for young people affected by the storm, pointing to a toy and shoe drive launched by local charity organisation, Humming Bird Foundation.

“I am associated with a charity called Humming Bird. They have launched a 10,000 toy drive and a shoe drive because it’s not only in replacing what they may have lost but it’s also a source of therapy for them,” he said.

“We need to try and help our children to smile again this Christmas, this holiday season. So when you go out there and you see them don’t just spend time with the big ones, spend a little time with the young people too. Just ask them how them feel, what you feel about the storm. And you will be surprised what a hug can do. A hug and a smile and just tell them say everything alright,” he urged.

Tufton also underscored the need for support for Jamaica’s elderly population, many of whom live alone, suffer from chronic illnesses, or rely on medication and limited income.

“We have to focus on our aging population. Our retirees, those people who now live by themselves, who have one or two chronic illnesses, who need to take their medication, who themselves are no longer earning and living off of a small pension or the help of others, they need some special attention too,” Tufton said.

“They could easily slip into a state of despair with very little chance of recovery if they are not given that support,” he added.

While acknowledging ongoing clinical responses, he emphasised the importance of human connection and emotional reassurance.

“We have the clinical approach but the therapeutic approach is just to be there for them and to talk to them and to listen to them. We taking care of everybody but I single out those two groups as important groups,” he said.

As recovery efforts continue islandwide, Tufton said it is critical that no vulnerable group be left behind.

— Horace Hines