In progress: Pilot Phase 3 of the Training on Mental Health Screening for Children & Adolescents

Copy of pediatricians training web

Pilot Phase 3 of the “Training in Mental Health Screening” of the Child & Adolescent Mental Health Initiative (CAMHI) is currently underway, with an expanded target audience that now includes pediatricians, general family physicians, and Personal Doctors of Mandatory Service (ex "rural doctors"). The training materials have now been uploaded to CAMHI's platform, ensuring continuous access to their final, updated version.

About the Program

The program “Training in Mental Health Screening” is implemented by CAMHI with exclusive support from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF), as part of the SNF Global Health Initiative (GHI).

The Program aims to provide health professionals working in public services with structured training in universal and targeted mental health screening, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills for the early identification and support of children, adolescents, and families.

Screening & Targeted Interventions

Universal screening for autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, and depression is a key component of primary care. When concerns arise or difficulties are observed, targeted screening is applied for:

  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Conduct Disorders
  • Eating Disorders
  • Substance Use Disorders
  • Aggression, self-harm, and suicidality

All tools used are free to access, psychometrically reliable, and validated for use in Greece, accompanied by literature reviews and scoring tables.

The CAMHI's Decision Tree functions as a screening algorithm and can be applied during any routine or urgent visit. The CAMHI's “Prescription Pad” includes common difficulties, emotions, and behaviors, as well as a Brief Wellness Guide with recommendations on sleep, physical activity, and nutrition.

Pilot Phases & Results

The training program has been implemented through two pilot phases and one intensive two-day session. Early findings indicate:

  • Significant improvement in participants’ literacy around mental health screening
  • High interest and satisfaction among participants
  • Effective use of hybrid and online formats, especially for hospital-based professionals

Pilot Phase 1

(November 2024 – March 2025)

  • Conducted across the Initiative’s five Reference Centers
  • 48 pediatricians participated in 6 groups
  • Challenges included limited time and the questionnaire completion process

Pilot Phase 2

(May – July 2025)

  • Conducted in 6 cities with 64 pediatricians in 7 groups
  • Included an additional group from Tripoli General Hospital
  • Parallel intensive training of General Family Physicians in Heraklion with 36 participants

The analysis of the first two phases highlights the need for ongoing improvements in data collection, strengthening the reliability of outcomes and the quality of the Program.