A Long-Term Study to Track Children’s Mental Health Over Time

The impact of the crisis on children’s mental health has been the subject of several warnings since the start of the pandemic from healthcare and child welfare professionals. Analysis of data from Santé publique France’s reactive mental health surveillance1 also highlights increased use of these services for psychological disorders presented by children and adolescents (see our mental health syndromic surveillance bulletins). At the same time, a review of the scientific literature confirms the need for data to describe the mental health of children aged 3 to 11, which is an essential foundation for effective prevention and care.

Thus, based on the mobilization of all stakeholders, this long-term survey was proposed to address the data gap, particularly regarding the 3- to 11-year-old age group. It is part of a comprehensive system for monitoring the mental health of children and adolescents, complementing other existing initiatives, particularly the EnClass study, which focuses on middle and high school students.

Thus, this survey will make it possible to measure and monitor mental health in children over time and:

• estimate the prevalence of indicators of positive mental health or “well-being,” equivalent to quality of life;

• estimate the prevalence of various mental health disorders, including learning disabilities;

• describe associated risk and protective factors, including social determinants;

• assess the impact of these disorders on other health-related areas.

This survey, the first of its kind, will use its findings to support stakeholders and public authorities in their prevention and care strategies, with a focus on the well-being essential for the learning and transition to adulthood of children and youth.

Two governing bodies supporting the survey’s implementation

Led by Santé publique France, the national survey on the mental health of young children involves the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of National Education, and stakeholders working with children and young people. It is supported by two bodies:

• The Scientific Advisory Committee:

It is composed of child psychiatrists, psychologists, physicians, and specialists in child development and learning disorders, as well as epidemiologists, statisticians, and experts in education and social sciences... Its mission is to clarify and define the study protocol, objectives, methodological framework, and synergy with existing surveys. This committee is meeting today to provide input on the objectives, procedures, and timeline of the survey.

• The steering committee:

It will ensure that the survey’s objectives align with the expectations for informing public policy decisions regarding the prevention and management of mental health disorders in children and youth, and that the study is conducted under appropriate conditions. It will be composed of representatives from the Ministry of Health (Directorate General of Health [DGS], Directorate of Research, Studies, Evaluation, and Statistics [DREES]), and will include the Ministry of National Education (Directorate General of School Education [DGESCO]), as well as representatives from civil society, particularly parent-teacher associations and teacher representatives. To be established by the end of April.