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Make mental health a strategic priority for your mobile workforce

As organizations expand globally, and employees seek opportunities to work internationally, the lines between home and away, and work and leisure, have become increasingly blurred.
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By Mark Harris , 

Global Mobility Solutions Leader, Europe

27/10/2025 · 4 minute read

As organisations expand globally, and employees seek opportunities to work internationally, the lines between home and away, and work and leisure, have become increasingly blurred. This can take a toll on internationally mobile employees, who can face significant financial, professional and social pressures.

Working internationally – what does it mean for mental health?

Relocating internationally or managing a significant life event in a new country can be a major source of stress for both assignees and their families.

  • Moving to a different country often brings about “culture shock,” or a sense of confusion and disorientation that arises when someone is suddenly exposed to an unfamiliar culture, lifestyle, or set of values. The absence of close friends, family, and a support network can further increase feelings of stress and anxiety.
  • Each relocation experience is unique and influenced by factors such as existing mental or physical health conditions, the destination region, the extent of cultural differences, climate, and the nature of the role. Availability of healthcare and benefits also varies widely between countries.
  • The effects on family members, including partners and children, can be particularly significant. Challenges such as finding employment for a partner, children adjusting to new cultural environments (often referred to as “third-culture kids”), schooling, and managing caregiving duties at home can all contribute to heightened stress.

How effectively your organisation supports these mental wellbeing challenges can influence employee engagement, productivity, and retention.

Our latest Mercer Marsh Benefits People Risk Report, which surveyed nearly 4,600 employers across 26 countries, identified mental health deterioration as a significant risk – one that requires proactive, strategic action.

While mental health concerns are perceived as severe, their likelihood is often underestimated by organisations. This disconnect can leave companies vulnerable to increased absenteeism, higher turnover, and diminished productivity.

Now is the time for organisations to prioritise mental health as a strategic business imperative for their global workforce – not just an HR concern. Building resilient support systems and fostering a culture of openness can make a real difference.

Innovative solutions for a mobile workforce: technology and culture

Moving forwards, collaboration between HR and risk management teams is essential to develop comprehensive strategies that mitigate these risks while enhancing  employee wellbeing.

Mercer Marsh Benefits 2025 Health on Demand survey reveals that financial constraints significantly impact employees' access to healthcare. Eight out of ten employees delay treatment due to cost – highlighting the urgent need for affordable, flexible mental health solutions. Employers play a vital role in facilitating access to necessary health services, especially as healthcare costs continue to rise.  

Mobile employees are now willing to sacrifice salary increases for enhanced wellbeing benefits, reflecting a growing demand for personalised and flexible health solutions. This trend is especially pronounced among Gen Z, who prioritise mental health support and work-life balance. To meet these evolving expectations, organisations must offer tailored benefits that resonate with their diverse workforce.

Conducting health screenings even before an assignment is crucial to identify any current health concerns, anticipate potential future issues, and tailor individual support plans, such as ensuring access to necessary medications and managing chronic conditions.

Digital health tools – such as teletherapy, mental health apps, and virtual coaching – are revolutionizing access to care. Integrating these solutions into your benefits package enables employees to proactively manage their mental wellbeing anytime, anywhere.

Creating a supportive environment also involves cultivating a culture where mental health is openly discussed, stigma is dismantled, and leaders champion wellbeing. Regular assessments and awareness campaigns are key. Training managers to recognise signs of distress and encouraging open conversations can help break down barriers that prevent employees from seeking help.

Leadership plays a pivotal role – by demonstrating genuine commitment, leaders set the tone for a health-focused culture. When executives prioritise wellbeing, it encourages employees to do the same, fostering an environment where mental health is valued and supported across all geographical locations.

Global challenges, local solutions: tailoring support for a diverse workforce

As organisations expand globally, they face additional complexities – cultural differences, regulatory hurdles, and healthcare disparities – that impact mental health support.

Organisations must recognise that mobile employees come from various backgrounds and have different experiences that shape their perspectives around health and wellbeing. Providing tailored, culturally-sensitive resources helps employees feel supported in navigating challenges effectively.

Ready to transform your mobile employee wellbeing strategy?

As workforces become more mobile and diverse, the need for comprehensive health and wellbeing strategies has never been greater. Prioritising mental health, fostering a culture of support, and leveraging innovative technology can create an environment where employees feel valued and empowered to take charge of their health. 

Contact us today and discover tailored solutions that make a real difference.

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Supporting employee mental health
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Employee health & benefits