[Evidence-based interventions in youth mental health prevention and promotion].

The purpose of this paper is to review the current scientific knowledge on mental health promotion interventions aimed at children and adolescents. Definitions of mental health, mental health prevention and mental health promotion are provided. The current state of knowledge in this area was assessed based on a specific method involving selection, a literature review and a classification of mental health promotion interventions identified using scientific databases. Seventeen interventions were identified as having an effect on youth mental health. Half of these interventions are aimed at the general population, while the other half target vulnerable individuals. The majority of the interventions are aimed at children aged 5 and over. Half of the interventions are multimodal, while unimodal interventions include programs aimed at promoting psychosocial competencies in children. An increased understanding of internationally recognized programs should promote reflection on current professional practice in France.