Approximately half of globally mobile professionals who work overseas are lonely, lacking companionship and suffering financial stress – and those who work in the UK are the loneliest

Expat life presents a well-being paradox: higher vitality, yet increased stress – new study reveals loneliness is a current phenomenon for globally mobile workers. Employer support to address challenges of globally mobile employees including financial well-being, mental health services access and social connection is paramount.

They’re the globally mobile professionals that work around the world in the offices of some of the largest companies – and around half are lonely. New research found that nearly half (48%), of globally mobile workers are lonely – lacking companionship in their new city or country.

The research also found:

• UK expats report significantly lower overall well-being than the global average (43% UK vs 57% global) and lower than UK ‘locals’.

• UK expats trail in most well-being categories, including overall physical, mental, social, spiritual, work, and financial compared to the global average.

• About half of UK expats want more support before or during their relocation, particularly employment and housing assistance.

“For many hundreds of thousands around the world, receiving an exciting out-of-country assignment in a new environment is often overshadowed by the stress of financial pressures and social isolation,” Wendy Sherry, CEO, Global Health Benefits, International Health, Cigna Healthcare said. “While most expats view their relocation as successful, these stressors can negatively impact their overall well-being and productivity while on assignment.” 

The Study*, which surveyed globally mobile professionals working overseas in 11 territories across four continents, reports that this demographic faces a range of unique challenges that can negatively impact their overall health and well-being, despite the exciting career opportunities.

Financial stress is a major concern, with fewer than a third of globally mobile individuals rating their financial well-being as ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’. The study also found that the cost of living (43%) and uncertainty about the future (51%) are significant stressors for UK expats and can impact their ability to prioritise healthcare.

Sherry adds: “Increasingly, the global workforce is looking to their employers to be there for them at the moments that matter, and employers have a critical role to play in supporting their globally mobile workforce. By fostering a culture of vitality, embracing holistic health care, and providing resources – including financial education, access to mental health services such as Employee Assistance Programmes, and creating opportunities for social connection – employers can help globally mobile employees maximise their potential and truly thrive in their new environments.”

Despite the loneliness and financial stressors, the study found that 78% of UK expats consider their relocation successful and 53% plan to remain globally mobile for the next year.

*Research from Cigna Healthcare International Health Study,

https://www.cignaglobal.com/blog/thought-leadership/globally-mobile-2025