Loneliness And Isolation: The Hidden Struggle of Globally Mobile Workers

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 by health benefits provider Cigna Healthcare’s International Health business 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 Cigna Healthcare International Health 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. 

iPMI Global analyst Christopher Knight concludes, "The Cigna Healthcare International Health Study 2024 provides valuable insights into the unique experiences of globally mobile employees. While this group demonstrates resilience and high levels of overall well-being, they face distinct challenges, particularly concerning financial security and social connection, leading to higher stress levels. The study strongly emphasizes the critical role of employers in proactively addressing these challenges through comprehensive support programs that encompass financial, social, emotional, and physical well-being. By understanding and responding to the specific needs of their globally mobile workforce, organizations can foster a more engaged, productive, and successful international assignment experience."

To learn more about globally mobile populations and the insights from the Cigna Healthcare International Health Study, visit https://www.cignaglobal.com/blog/thought-leadership/globally-mobile-2025    

About the Cigna Healthcare International Health Study  

Cigna Healthcare surveyed more than 10,000 respondents in 11 markets – the US, UK, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Kenya, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and the Hong Kong SAR from May 9-27, 2024, in collaboration with YouGov – a global public opinion and data company. The nationally representative online survey assessed the health, vitality and well-being of more than 1,000 adults (aged 18 years and older) in each of these markets - US, UK, Spain, UAE, Singapore and the Hong Kong SAR, and more than 500 adults per market in Kenya, Belgium, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, and Switzerland. A total of 1,840 of these are globally mobile workers.

About Cigna Healthcare 

Cigna Healthcare is a health benefits provider that advocates for better health through every stage of life. We guide our customers through the health care system, empowering them with the information and insight they need to make the best choices for improving their health and vitality. Products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI), including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Evernorth Health companies or their affiliates and Express Scripts companies or their affiliates. Such products and services include an integrated suite of health services, such as medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, vision, supplemental benefits, and others.