Theremia Wins the Innovation and Mental Health Trophy
July 8, 2025
On March 31, 2025, the Innovation Awards ceremony was held at the Théâtre de la Tour Eiffel in Paris. This year, mental health was recognized as one of the most pressing challenges of tomorrow by the national government. Indeed, it represents a major public health issue, affecting people of all ages. The rise in mental health disorders is particularly alarming among young people with 1 in 7 teenagers affected by mental health issues worldwide (OMS, 2023)Mental health is a growing concern in France which can justify that the government In 2023, around 3 million people suffered from a major depressive episode (Santé publique France 2022 ). The figures are even more worrying among the under 25s: 21% show signs of depression, and 40% suffer from generalized anxiety (Ipsos Survey for the FondaMental Foundation). In recent years, depressive symptoms among this group have jumped by 9 points three times more than among older adults. Even when a diagnosis is made, 30% of patients fail to respond to medication, and many give up treatment altogether due to side effects. (M. Farrukh et al. “Medication adherence status among patients with neurological conditions and its association with quality of life.” SPJ (2021).
Part of the problem lies in the way depression is treated. The current “one-size-fits-all” approach ignores the fact that not all patients are the same. Gender, age, ethnic background, metabolism, and disease stage are often overlooked. Abroad, AI is starting to play a key role in tackling these issues. Real-world evidence (RWE) is being used in initiatives like MOODSTRATIFICATION in Europe or the AIDME study in the US. There are four clear obstacles to develop AI solutions in mental health: real-world data on 15- to 28-year-olds is barely gathered; existing datasets are fragmented and inconsistent; the impact of AI remains largely invisible to doctors; and collaboration across disciplines is underrepresented.
This is where Theremia steps in. Already known for its work on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, the company is now applying its validated algorithms to major depressive disorders. Our approach combines patient data with molecular insights to better understand why treatments work for some but not for others. It enables to develop new therapeutic approaches, create tools for early diagnosis, design digital solutions for patient monitoring, launch prevention programs tailored to different audiences, and implement initiatives aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness. In this context, Theremia is establishing itself as a key player in the mental health landscape in France. Our commitment to pioneering innovative solutions was praised by the jury, who awarded the company the Innovation and Mental Health Trophy.
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