Relocating to another country is one of life's great adventures, but it can come with challenges. From navigating a new healthcare system to managing stress, loneliness, and lifestyle changes, staying well abroad requires a proactive approach.
Research consistently shows that expats face unique health pressures. According to a study cited by William Russell, 50% of US expats studied were at risk of anxiety and depression, two-and-a-half times higher than their home-based counterparts. A separate AXA Global Healthcare report found anxiety was the most common difficulty expats face across France, Scandinavia, and the UK. Without the right support in place, minor issues can quickly escalate.
• Register with a local GP or clinic as soon as you arrive, don't wait until you're unwell
• Keep up with regular screenings and check-ups; don't let them slide because you're busy settling in
• Prioritise sleep, exercise, and diet. Stress levels are typically highest in the first year of relocation
• Build a social network. Isolation is one of the biggest mental health risks for expats, as noted by Psychology Today and corroborated by multiple studies
• Know your insurance: keep your policy documents accessible and understand how to make a claim locally
A good IPMI policy isn't just about hospital cover. The IPMI Global 2026 industry report notes that 83% of expats experience negative mental health symptoms linked to their work environment, underlining the importance of comprehensive wellbeing benefits. Insurance providers like APRIL International build mental health support, teleconsultation, and preventative care directly into their expat plans. Look for plans that include:
• Mental health and counselling benefits
• Access to telehealth or virtual GP services
• Preventative care and annual health assessments
• Emergency medical evacuation if specialist care isn't available locally
