The importance of mental health support: a guide for global companies sending workers to the U.S.

With behavioral health issues on the rise globally, and as companies increasingly send employees all over the world for work, the importance of mental health support has never been more critical. Unmet mental health needs can significantly affect employee performance, retention and overall well-being while contributing to rising medical costs. In fact, around the world HR managers rated mental health deterioration as their top health-related concern, while risk managers ranked it second only to “pandemics”.¹

Particularly for inpatriates who may face cultural adjustments, isolation and workplace pressures, navigating the U.S. health care system presents challenges. 

1. Complex insurance structures: Unlike many countries with universal healthcare, mental health support in the U.S. is often tied to employer-sponsored insurance. This can create a complex landscape for employees to navigate, with varying levels of coverage for therapy, psychiatry, and other mental health services. While federal protections like the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act exist, access and costs can still vary widely. Employees may struggle to understand their coverage, including in-network versus out-of-network providers and out-of-pocket costs.
2. Cultural barriers and stigma: Employees from diverse cultural backgrounds may feel uncomfortable seeking help or may not know how to access available resources. They may come from backgrounds where seeking mental health support is stigmatized or where care models differ significantly from those in the U.S. Understanding and addressing these nuances is essential for employers aiming to provide effective support.

Companies that effectively address these challenges and prioritize mental health support not only foster a healthier workforce but also benefit from improved productivity and employee satisfaction. 

Actionable insights for employers

There are several strategies companies can consider:

1. Choose the right health insurance partner: Selecting an insurance carrier that offers comprehensive coverage for mental health care is crucial. Ensure they cover a range of options including therapy, psychiatric care, and telehealth. Aetna International offers a range of plan designs that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your employees.

2. Tailor plan resources to meet cultural needs: Employers should consider the cultural backgrounds of their employees when selecting an international insurance carrier. As an example, Aetna International has developed a unique provider network in the U.S. that supports specific cultural needs, such as the Ningen Dock exam for Japanese inpatriates and a similar comprehensive health checkup for Korean inpatriates. These culturally relevant services help employees feel more at ease with their care in the U.S. and facilitate access to mental health resources that align with their cultural expectations.

3. Provide clear guidance: Once you’ve selected the right partner and the right plan, effective benefits communications are essential for maximizing employee engagement and utilization. With the help of your health insurance partner, educate employees about their benefits, including how to find in-network providers. For example, the Aetna member website and app feature Aetna Smart Compare® with Intelligent Matching technology. This helps members locate the in-network providers, including psychiatrists, that best fit their specific health needs and care preferences. This makes it easier for employees to find high-quality and effective options.

4. Encourage use of employee assistance programs (EAPs): EAPs provide short-term counseling and referrals for employees and their families. Aetna International plans include access to EAP services both in and out of the U.S., ensuring that employees have confidential support available whenever they need it. This global access to EAP services helps alleviate concerns about seeking help, particularly for employees on assignment who may be navigating unfamiliar environments. Managers can get support through the EAP as well, which offers professional advice and guidance to effectively support them in addressing an employee’s mental health concerns.

5.  Promote telehealth and digital resources: Virtual therapy and mental health apps can be very useful for employees adjusting to a new culture. Many Aetna International plans cover mental telehealth services at no cost to the member, making it easier for them to seek help.** And because we know that youth mental health is a global crisis with at least 200 million children and teenagers struggling with a mental health disorder worldwide², many of these services are available for those younger than 18, including CVS Virtual Care®. 

Additionally, all Aetna International plans include free member access to Wysa, a globally available AI-powered mental health support app with live coaching options, that can help them manage their mental health.

6. Foster a supportive culture: To help combat stigma, encourage open conversations about mental health in the workplace. With a culture of openness and understanding, companies create an environment where employees feel safe to discuss their needs. 

Your employees’ mental health matters

As companies navigate the complexities of sending employees to the U.S. on work assignments, prioritizing mental health support is essential. By investing in a comprehensive international health plan that includes robust mental health coverage and resources, employers can ensure their employees have the support they need to thrive.

For more information on how Aetna International can assist your organization, contact us today. 

^{1. People Risk 2024: Investing in your people, protecting your business. Mercer Marsh Benefits™. April 2024. Available at Mercer.com. Accessed April 14, 2025.}

^{2. Getting to the bottom of the teen mental health crisis. McKinsey & company. September 2023. Available at Mckinsey.com. Accessed April 14, 2025.}

^{3. Health Trends 2025, Adapting Plans to Optimize Value. Mercer Marsh Benefits™. October 2024. Available at Mercer.com. Accessed April 14, 2025.}

^{*Aetna Smart Compare™ provider search functionality in the U.S. is included with all Aetna International plans. Aetna Smart Compare™ with Intelligent Matching is an optional add on for self-funded plans and is included in all fully insured plans.}

^{**Mental health services are no cost to the member after the plan deductible has been met, if applicable.}