Children across the country are enjoying the last remaining days of the summer.

For many kids, summer break is a relaxing time filled with days by the pool, vacations, and time with family. But sometimes the change in routine or expectations of the season can lead you or your children to feel depressed.

Depression in children or their parents can be a problem, as both can negatively affect a child’s wellbeing. Children who are depressed may miss out on being with their peers and enjoying activities.  And, according to researchers, it is also more likely for children who grow up with a depressed parent to be depressed in adulthood.

The good news is that treatment can help. A study reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that when mothers achieved remission of their depression symptoms through treatment, their children also became less likely to be depressed.

Because treatment for mental health conditions can improve not only your life but also your children’s, Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital is offering you the opportunity to take a screening for a variety of common mental health conditions, including a screening to take on behalf of your child.  The screenings are free, anonymous, and only take a few minutes. To complete a screening please visit: http://www.mentalhealthscreening.org/screening/HENRYMAYO.