The science of child and adolescent mental health in Greece: a nationwide systematic review of the literature

BackgroundEvidence-based information is essential to delivering effective mental health care, yet the extent and accessibility of the scientific literature are critical barriers for professionals and policymakers. To map the necessities and make validated resources accessible, we undertook a comprehensive analysis of scientific evidence on child and adolescent mental health in Greece. MethodsThis systematic review encompasses three research topics related to the mental health of children and adolescents in Greece: prevalence estimates, assessment instruments, and interventions. We searched Pubmed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, and IATPOTEK from inception to December 16th, 2021. We included studies assessing the prevalence of conditions, reporting data on assessment tools, and experimental interventions. For each area, manuals informed data extraction and the methodological quality was ascertained using validated tools. This review was registered in protocols.io [68583]. OutcomesWe included 104 studies reporting 533 prevalence estimates, 223 studies informing data on 261 assessment instruments, and 34 intervention studies. We report the prevalence of conditions according to regions within the country. A repository of locally validated instruments and their psychometrics were compiled. An overview of interventions provided data on their effectiveness. The outcomes are made available in an interactive resource on-line [https://camhi.gr/en/systematic-review-tables/]. InterpretationScientific evidence on child and adolescent mental health in Greece has been cataloged and appraised. This timely and accessible compendium of up-to-date evidence offers valuable resources for clinical practice and policy making in Greece and may encourage similar assessments in other countries. FundingThe Stavros Niarchos Foundation.