As global mobility evolves, so do workforce expectations. Today, Gen Z—those born between 1997 and 2012—are stepping into international roles with a bold mix of optimism, anxiety, and an unshakable desire for authenticity. Alongside career growth, they’re seeking balance and mental wellness.

And if we want to retain and empower this generation, we must meet them where they are—emotionally, digitally, and globally.

Here’s what the research (and a little anecdotal evidence from my own experience as the mother of two ambitious, plugged-in Gen Z daughters) tells us about how mental health shapes their career journeys.

Prioritizing Employers Who Prioritize Mental Health

Each generation is shaped by different motivators: Gen X prizes dependability, Millennials crave purpose, and Gen Z is the first to openly prioritize mental health as a core value.

According to Weichert’s research on early careers and employee-initiated mobility, 81% of Gen Z employees have considered leaving a job due to mental health concerns. They’re unafraid to walk away from roles that don’t support their well-being.

For global mobility leaders, this is a clear message: mental health support can’t be an afterthought—it must be embedded into the mobility experience.

Globally Mobile Gen Z Talent

Gen Z brings adaptability, digital fluency, and values like sustainability and social responsibility to the workplace. These qualities make them well-suited for global assignments, but also spotlight their need for thoughtful support systems.

Many Gen Z assignees move abroad without family, leaving them more vulnerable to loneliness and burnout. They crave cultural immersion, but they also need emotional anchors: community, connection, and clarity.

Encouragingly, the MetLife 2024 Expat Employee Benefit Trends Study found a 15-point increase since 2021 in holistic health among globally mobile Gen Z, spanning mental, physical, financial, and social health. Still, nearly 70% of relocated employees say they need more support to thrive abroad.

Attracting Gen Z Talent to Mobility Opportunities

To resonate with younger talent, mobility leaders must rethink the traditional playbook. Progressive companies are:

  • Categorizing moves by purpose to align support with employee needs.
  • Embedding wellbeing benefits into policies to strengthen attraction and retention.
  • Offering flexibility—from hybrid work to career and family assistance.
  • Investing in language and cultural training, which Gen Z is especially drawn to.

In fact, our data shows a 74% increase in cultural training usage among this demographic, with 20% selecting it as a flex benefit. For a generation that values authentic experiences, these programs fuel both professional and personal growth.

The Bottom Line

Why should we focus on Gen Z? Because they are the critical building blocks of tomorrow’s organizations: the future leaders and changemakers who will drive resilience and growth in the decade ahead.

Right now, they’re telling us exactly what they want: balance, flexibility, and meaningful connection.

When combined with hybrid work arrangements, mobility benefits that prioritize wellbeing go a long way in helping this generation feel whole—in both their personal and professional lives. And considering that greater satisfaction strengthens the talent pipeline over time, investing in your people’s wellbeing will always be a worthwhile investment.

Author’s Note: As the mom of a Gen Z’er, and a devoted practitioner myself, I know that yoga and meditation are very popular for this generation.

Did you know?

  • 19% of U.S. yoga practitioners are aged 18–29, that’s approximately 6.8 million Gen Z individuals practicing yoga regularly. [Gen Z and…s | Health]
  • Gen Z is driving the 25% increase in online yoga classes since 2020, reflecting their preference for flexible, tech-enabled wellness solutions. [Gen Z and…s | Health]
  • Gen Z outspends older generations on mindfulness-related wellness products, including meditation classes and therapy sessions.  [Mind the G…h wellness]

 Am I suggesting turning that underused conference room into a yoga and meditation studio to empower employees to seize a little zen in their workday? Perhaps…