A recent ‘mind health report’ warned that there is a risk of an ‘expat exodus’ from the global workforce, a timely reminder that relocating overseas is rarely a straightforward process for anyone.
Mental health challenges
Earlier this year I spotted a headline that read ‘great widespread resignation to the great escape’. It was from a 2024 global mind health report, produced by the healthcare specialist AXA. The report claims the world’s ‘non-native workforce is struggling more than ever with mental health challenges’: a ‘staggering’ 80% are experiencing at least one mental health symptom and almost half (49%) are struggling with burnout as a result of their job (note that this report focuses solely on ‘non-native employees’, not expat partners).
Exit strategies
How might this impact staff retention for employers? The tone of the report is somewhat alarmist but it revealed (of those surveyed) that 81% of non-natives working around the globe have ‘at least one exit strategy from their current job to help them manage the impact work is having on their mental health. And more than two in five (45%) are looking into upskilling options, such as training courses, to facilitate this move.’
The strain of relocation
Of course, saying you have a backup plan does not mean ‘I am ready to pack the bags and call it quits’ but the findings are a reminder that relocating to a foreign land will feel challenging for anyone, if they feel they are not receiving the right support. Indeed, the report found that more than a quarter (29%) of non-native workers are ‘dissatisfied with their company’s psychological support services’.
Far from home
From our own work at Global Connection (including the delivery of support, extensive media interviews, conducting surveys, receiving feedback from partners, etc), we continually see and hear how expat partners benefit from feeling seen and heard. In many cases we have seen expat partners that were ‘in a hole’ turn things around a ‘full 180’ and find a way to thrive while living abroad. It’s not a magic trick. It’s simply the result of us listening to the needs of the partner, empowering them to make the most of opportunities and helping them to overcome isolation and find fulfilment. In some instances, even just knowing the right support is there helps partners to feel more secure about expat life. Indeed, with our partner support programs, our clients not only ensure they provide effective duty of care but they will also save costs. Should you wish to hear more about what our partner support can do for your company, please get in touch.
The full 2024 global mind health report can be downloaded here
