A digital platform to improve teenagers’ mental health
Adolescence is a crucial period for the development and mental health of young people. However, a growing number of studies show that mental disorders affect 14% of adolescents worldwide, with a rising trend. In response to this alarming situation, a European research consortium has developed the IMPROVA digital platform, as part of the European Union’s Horizon Europe program. This initiative aims to prevent and detect disorders such as depression and anxiety in teenagers at an early stage.
An Inserm-supported project to combat mental disorders in young people
The IMPROVA project, led by an international, interdisciplinary research consortium, counts among its members the Equipe de recherche en épidémiologie sociale of the Institut Pierre-Louis d’épidémiologie et de santé publique (Inserm Unit 1136) in Paris, headed by Maria Melchior. Since 2022, this project has worked closely with teenagers, parents, teachers, school health professionals and policymakers to design a digital platform aimed at improving young people’s mental health. In addition to its role in preventing and detecting disorders, this tool aims to combat stigmatization and social inequalities linked to mental health.
A study underway to assess the platform’s effectiveness
Starting in December, the IMPROVA platform will be tested by 6,000 European teenagers recruited as part of the IMPROVA study. In France, 1,500 young people from the Créteil and Versailles academies are taking part in the study. The aim is to assess the benefits and effectiveness of the platform in improving teenagers’ mental health.
Sources
This article has been adapted from content published by Inserm. Find the source article and all references on the Inserm website.
Find out more about the IMPROVA project