While 86% of expats experience stress, a study suggests they may handle burnout more effectively.

Moving overseas to work abroad can be challenging, but it can also be highly rewarding.

Having recently relocated from the US to Singapore, I can attest to the fact that although the chance to do so is a blessing, it also presents its own set of difficulties.

The prospect of a 16-hour flight from your nearest loved ones can be intimidating, but the opportunity to fully immerse in a new culture and devote time to self-reflection are invaluable.

According to the Cigna Healthcare Vitality Study released in April 2024, globally mobile individuals are becoming an increasingly significant component of workforces in many markets.

Nearly a third (30%) of people who still reside in their home country are likely to live overseas, according to a study.

Over 10,000 individuals, including 2,600 globally mobile people, were surveyed across 12 markets, including the U.S., U.K., Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Kenya, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, mainland China, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

Who are today's globally mobile?

Individuals who are globally mobile tend to have a higher vitality score of 71.7 compared to those who reside in the home market, with a score of 66.7.

The Evernorth Vitality Index is used to measure people's ability to live a healthy and energetic life, according to the report.

The survey aimed to measure participants' levels of physical, spiritual, emotional, environmental, social, occupational, financial, and intellectual well-being through a series of questions.

According to the study, this group had a higher percentage of excellent or very good mental well-being (58%) compared to their local counterparts (42%).

Wendy Sherry, CEO for Global Health Benefits, International Health, at Cigna Healthcare claims that globally mobile employees tend to have higher levels of vitality, which is a mental and physical state of being healthy, capable, and energetic, as well as a strong sense of meaning and purpose.

She stated that all aspects of our lives, including social, professional, and financial, are interconnected.

The report suggests that globally mobile individuals are more likely to feel connected to others, be more engaged, energized, and enthusiastic at work compared to locals.

Although this group has greater vitality, they also experience high levels of stress (86%) and burnout (96%), which is higher than the local population.

Sherry stated that while expats may encounter social isolation, which can intensify emotional struggles, exacerbate stress, and heighten the likelihood of burnout.

The study found that this group is more likely to experience feelings of detachment, loneliness, self-doubt, and negative outlook, particularly in Asia, Middle East, and Africa.

According to the study, stress levels in Asia are high, with Singapore and Hong Kong having levels of 89% and 91%, respectively. In contrast, stress levels in Europe are relatively low, with Spain and the Netherlands having levels of 79% and 67%, respectively. In the UAE and Saudi Arabia, stress levels reach 90%, while in Kenya, they reach 94%.

Here are the biggest challenges faced by those living and working abroad:

• Financial challenges (38%)
• Homesickness (23%)
• Difficulty maintaining work/life balance (18%)
• Health issues like difficulty accessing health care (18%)
• Difficulty finding housing (17%)

In Asia, particularly in Hong Kong (22%) and mainland China (24%), expats are more likely to face work-related challenges. Additionally, Hong Kong-based respondents (40%) require more help in navigating local healthcare than do about 28% of respondents in other regions.

A seeming disconnect?

Despite reporting higher stress and burnout levels, globally mobile individuals score higher on vitality compared to local counterparts.

The study found that the group's adaptability and resilience may have contributed to the outcome.

The report highlights that globally mobile employees are a highly valuable and resilient segment of the workforce. Despite facing unique stressors, they exhibit distinct skills and a high level of motivation, resulting in higher vitality.

Despite their greater resilience, the stress this group experiences should not be underestimated.

According to the study, foreign professionals often view work as a comprehensive support system, source of purpose, and social center, whereas local employees may have more distinct boundaries between personal and professional life.

"To ensure a holistic approach to employee well-being, employers must prioritize work-life balance, social well-being, and comprehensive support that extends beyond physical and mental health."

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