EARLY -  Evaluating, Identifying and Reducing determinants of MHCs in Youth

ID Call: HORIZON-HLTH-2022-DISEASE-07-03 Non-communicable diseases risk reduction in adolescence and youth (Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases - GACD)

Sapienza's role in the project: Other beneficiary

Scientific supervisor for Sapienza: Giuseppe La Torre

Department: Public Health and Infectious Diseases

Project start date: December 1, 2023

Project end date: November 11, 2027

 Abstract:

The EARLY project aims to reduce the burden of mental health conditions in youth, particularly depression, anxiety, stress-related disorders, and substance use disorders, by identifying and reducing modifiable risk exposures. Using a mixed-methods approach, EARLY develops a comprehensive exposure matrix, analyses representative multinational data, explores the perceptions of young people and stakeholders, and conducts a cross-sectional survey across multiple European countries. The project also involves the design, implementation, and evaluation of a multicomponent intervention, generating evidence on its effectiveness and sustainability. Overall, EARLY will deliver innovative tools, accessible data, and actionable evidence to support researchers and policymakers in promoting youth mental health and preventing non-communicable diseases.

Within the EARLY project, Sapienza University of Rome plays a key scientific role, taking over the leadership of Work Package 2 (WP2). Sapienza is responsible for the development of the Data Sharing and Management Plan (DSMP), the definition of the project’s conceptual framework, and the methodological structure for capturing and organizing youth mental health conditions. In addition, Sapienza coordinates the design of a cross-sectional European survey instrument, aimed at addressing data gaps identified across other work packages and serving as a blueprint for youth mental health monitoring. Sapienza also contributes to cross-cutting methodological support, data analysis, interdisciplinary integration, and scientific dissemination, thereby strengthening the overall coherence and quality of the project.