‘They are exterminating us’: Cubans face psychological tolls from ‘economic strangulation’ as U.S. energy embargo continues

Introduction: A Nation in Crisis

Cuba, an island of nearly 10 million inhabitants, is undergoing a profound crisis that transcends mere economic hardship. The combination of sweltering nights, power outages, and water shortages creates an environment where basic living standards are rapidly deteriorating. Amidst these dire conditions, the psychological toll on the Cuban people is mounting, with many reaching their breaking point. As the U.S. energy embargo continues unabated, the chances for relief seem increasingly remote.

This article delves into the complex interplay of factors contributing to Cuba's current plight, the resilience of its population, and the broader implications of ongoing U.S. sanctions. It also highlights personal stories that shed light on the emotional and psychological ramifications of day-to-day survival in a country facing unprecedented challenges.

Historical Context: The Legacy of Sanctions

Cuba's struggles are not new; they are rooted in decades of economic turmoil exacerbated by U.S. sanctions imposed since the early 1960s. The embargo has restricted access to vital resources, including food, medicine, and energy supplies. In recent years, this policy has intensified under different administrations, with former President Donald Trump implementing stringent measures that have further tightened the noose around the island's economy.

The repercussions of these measures are clear. According to Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister Bruno Rodríguez, the "economic strangulation" from U.S. policies amounted to over $8 billion from March 2025 to the end of February — a record high. As a result, daily life has become a grueling battle for essentials, leading to widespread despair among the population.

Daily Life: The Strain on Mental Health

In the midst of these hardships, healthcare professionals like Dr. Yomeidis Felicó Riverón have taken on additional roles. As a primary care physician, she finds herself acting as a confidante for patients who come to her not just for medical help, but for emotional support. “They come and cry about their troubles, because they have no one else to vent to,” she explains. This duality of the physician's role underscores the psychological burden many Cubans carry.

The reality for Cuban families often manifests in small, everyday struggles. Dr. Felicó Riverón recounts how she distracts her young son from the harsh realities of life. “Let’s go play, let’s go to the park. We’ll come back another day,” she says, carefully shielding him from the financial stress that looms over their household.

Dianne Tamayo, another mother navigating this difficult landscape, expresses similar sentiments. Through community workshops, she tries to carve out moments of respite for her daughter and herself, while also relying on her husband for emotional support. “When I’m going crazy, my husband tells me, ‘Sit down, breathe … let’s put on some music,’” she shares, reflecting the importance of familial bonds in times of crisis.

The Physical Environment: Crumbling Infrastructure

Cuba's infrastructure is crumbling, exacerbating the already dire circumstances. With rolling blackouts becoming a common occurrence, some neighborhoods experience more than 24 hours without electricity. The impact on water supply is equally severe, leading to public health alerts about deteriorating conditions. The U.S. Embassy in Cuba has warned of gastrointestinal illnesses arising from contaminated water sources, highlighting the urgent need for international attention.

Elderly residents like Oscar Joaquín López, 81, have developed coping mechanisms to navigate these challenges. He leans against his doorframe, watching his roommate fill containers with water from a street pipe. “Why?” he asks rhetorically, “Because it drives you crazy, and nobody is going to drive me crazy.” This sentiment captures the resilience many Cubans exhibit despite overwhelming obstacles.

Community Resilience: Finding Hope in Despair

Despite the bleak circumstances, community resilience shines through. Social gatherings, workshops, and informal networks provide emotional support for those struggling. These community events allow individuals to come together, share experiences, and find solace in their shared adversity.

Take, for instance, the weekly gatherings attended by 90-year-old Lázaro Alfonso Oviedo. Engaging in music and dance, he emphasizes the importance of camaraderie: “We are not going to give up,” he affirms, drawing strength from the revolutionary spirit that has characterized Cuba for over six decades.

Similarly, José Manuel Borroto Díaz, 70, finds motivation in his relationship with his 93-year-old mother. “Our situation is like something out of a movie, but we’re going to press on,” he states, exemplifying the determination that many Cubans share in the face of hardship.

The Broader Implications: Geopolitical and Economic Considerations

The ongoing crisis in Cuba is not merely a humanitarian issue; it also has significant geopolitical ramifications. The U.S. embargo has tightly bound Cuba's economic fate to that of its allies, notably Russia and China, who have expressed support for the island in various forms. This alignment could reshape regional dynamics, particularly as global power relations evolve.

With the U.S. eager to exert its influence over Latin America, the responses from neighboring countries and international organizations will play a crucial role in determining Cuba's future. Increased cooperation among Latin American nations could lead to alternative economic models that challenge the U.S. hegemony in the region.

Conclusion: A Call for Global Awareness

Cuba's current crisis is a manifestation of long-standing economic and political challenges, exacerbated by external pressures. While the human spirit remains resilient amidst adversity, the necessity for global awareness and intervention is more pressing than ever.

As the international community watches, it is essential to consider not just the economic implications but also the profound psychological toll that such crises impose on individuals and families. A renewed focus on humanitarian aid and constructive dialogue might pave the way for a brighter future for the Cuban people, who continue to fight for hope in an environment characterized by despair.

In the words of Armando Lafita, a 60-year-old flower vendor, “Everybody is fighting to survive here. It’s getting harder every day.” The world must not turn a blind eye to their struggle; instead, it should foster a dialogue that prioritizes human dignity and the right to a better life.