About Your Score
Each of your answers has a score of 0-2. Click "Your Answers" above to see your score for each question.
Not True = 0
Sometimes = 1
True = 2
Your results include a Total Score that helps identify symptoms of depression. A higher score suggests more depressive symptoms.
Interpreting your score:
Total Score (out of 26):
- Score 0-7: Minimal symptoms of depression. Your child appears to be experiencing few depressive symptoms at this time.
- Score 8-11: Mild symptoms that may warrant monitoring. While below the clinical threshold, some research suggests these scores may benefit from continued observation. Consider retaking the screening if symptoms persist or worsen.
- Score 12-26: Significant symptoms that may indicate depression. Scores in this range suggest your child may be experiencing depression and would benefit from professional evaluation. The higher the score, the more severe the symptoms may be.
The SMFQ-P assesses various aspects of depression including:
- Mood symptoms (feeling miserable, unhappy, lonely)
- Behavioral changes (crying, restlessness, sitting around doing nothing)
- Cognitive symptoms (difficulty concentrating, negative self-thoughts)
- Self-perception (feeling worthless, unloved, or like a bad person)
All 13 questions contribute equally to your total score, providing an overall picture of your child's mood over the past two weeks.
References:
- Angold, A., Costello, E. J., Messer, S. C., Pickles, A., Winder, F., & Silver, D. (1995). The development of a short questionnaire for use in epidemiological studies of depression in children and adolescents. International Journal of Methods in Psychiatric Research, 5, 237-249.
- Original Source: Adrian Angold & Elizabeth J. Costello, 1987; Developmental Epidemiology Program; Duke University
- Name: Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire - Parent Version (SMFQ-P)
Please note:This mental health screening tool is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We recommend taking screenshots or printing your results to share with a doctor or healthcare provider. Mental Health Center Kids, LLC disclaims any liability, loss, or risk incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of these screens.
Your Answers
- Overall Score: / 26
✅ RESULTS: Low Risk Identified
Your results show that your child is likely at low risk for depression at this time. Based on your responses, your child does not appear to be experiencing significant symptoms of depression. Learn more about your results by clicking on the "About Your Score" tab above.
⚠️ Important Note
These results are for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You can meet with a doctor, psychologist, or psychiatric professional who can provide a thorough evaluation. Sharing these results with someone you trust can be a great place to start.
💪 Supporting Your Child's Mental Health
- Maintain consistent routines and healthy sleep habits
- Encourage regular physical activity and outdoor time
- Foster positive social connections with friends and family
- Create opportunities for activities your child enjoys
- Practice active listening and validate their emotions
- Model healthy ways to express and manage feelings
📋 What To Do Next
👥 Keep Communication Open
- Talk regularly with your child about their feelings and experiences
- Check in with your child's teacher or school counselor periodically
- Discuss any ongoing concerns with your child's doctor
🎯 Build Skills Now
At Mental Health Center Kids, we offer therapist-approved worksheets to support emotional wellbeing. Even if your child is doing well now, our resources can help build self-awareness, emotional regulation skills, and positive coping strategies.
📚 Helpful Resources
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) Resources for Families
- Access free resources about depression in children
- Learn about child development and emotional health
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Children's Mental Health
- Explore research-based information on childhood mental health
- Find guidance on prevention and early intervention
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children's Mental Health
- Learn about common childhood depression concerns
- Access free parenting resources and strategies
Finding Local Providers
- Consult with your pediatrician, school counselor, or health insurance provider
- Get referrals to child mental health providers in your area
⏰ Stay Aware
If things change or you notice differences in your child's behavior or mood, talk with your child's healthcare provider. You can also take this screening again in a few months to monitor any changes.
If your child ever talks about hurting themselves or others, call or text 988 right away for 24/7 help from the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
✅ RESULTS: Low Risk Identified
Your results show that your child is likely at low risk for depression at this time. Based on your responses, your child does not appear to be experiencing significant symptoms of depression. Learn more about your results by clicking on the "About Your Score" tab above.
*Note for scores 8-11: While your child's score falls below the clinical threshold of 12, some research suggests scores of 8 or higher may warrant monitoring. Consider observing your child's mood over the coming weeks and retaking the screening if symptoms persist or worsen. If you have concerns, discussing them with your child's healthcare provider is always appropriate.
⚠️ Important Note
These results are for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You can meet with a doctor, psychologist, or psychiatric professional who can provide a thorough evaluation. Sharing these results with someone you trust can be a great place to start.
💪 Supporting Your Child's Mental Health
- Maintain consistent routines and healthy sleep habits
- Encourage regular physical activity and outdoor time
- Foster positive social connections with friends and family
- Create opportunities for activities your child enjoys
- Practice active listening and validate their emotions
- Model healthy ways to express and manage feelings
📋 What To Do Next
👥 Keep Communication Open
- Talk regularly with your child about their feelings and experiences
- Check in with your child's teacher or school counselor periodically
- Discuss any ongoing concerns with your child's doctor
🎯 Build Skills Now
At Mental Health Center Kids, we offer therapist-approved worksheets to support emotional wellbeing. Even if your child is doing well now, our resources can help build self-awareness, emotional regulation skills, and positive coping strategies.
📚 Helpful Resources
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) Resources for Families
- Access free resources about depression in children
- Learn about child development and emotional health
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Children's Mental Health
- Explore research-based information on childhood mental health
- Find guidance on prevention and early intervention
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children's Mental Health
- Learn about common childhood depression concerns
- Access free parenting resources and strategies
Finding Local Providers
- Consult with your pediatrician, school counselor, or health insurance provider
- Get referrals to child mental health providers in your area
⏰ Stay Aware
If things change or you notice differences in your child's behavior or mood, talk with your child's healthcare provider. You can also take this screening again in a few months to monitor any changes.
If your child ever talks about hurting themselves or others, call or text 988 right away for 24/7 help from the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
🚨 RESULTS: Depression Concerns Identified
Your results suggest your child may be experiencing symptoms of depression. Your child scored 12 or higher on this screening, which indicates they may be experiencing significant mood symptoms that warrant further evaluation. You can meet with a doctor or mental health professional who can provide a thorough assessment. While these results suggest potential concerns, only a qualified provider can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the best treatment approach. Learn more about your results by clicking on the "About Your Score" tab above.
⚠️ Important Note
These results are for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Sharing these results with someone you trust can be a great place to start.
📋 What To Do Next
👥 Talk to a Professional
- Share these screening results with providers
- You can start with your child's pediatrician
- Ask school staff or counselors for mental health provider recommendations
🚨 Warning Signs
Emergency - Seek Immediate Help If Your Child:
- Talks about wanting to hurt themselves or others
- Has made a suicide attempt or has a specific plan
- Shows severe hopelessness or says life isn't worth living
- Engages in reckless or self-harming behaviors
For Emergency Help:
- Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- Call 911 if your child is in immediate danger
- Go to the nearest emergency room
Contact Doctor/Mental Health Professional If Your Child:
- Shows persistent sadness or tearfulness
- Has lost interest in activities they once enjoyed
- Experiences significant changes in appetite or weight
- Has trouble sleeping or sleeps too much
- Shows difficulty concentrating or decline in school performance
- Expresses feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Shows increased irritability or anger
📚 Helpful Resources
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) Resources for Families
- Access free resources about depression in children
- Learn about child development and emotional health
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Children's Mental Health
- Explore research-based information on childhood mental health
- Find guidance on prevention and early intervention
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children's Mental Health
- Learn about childhood depression and its impact
- Access free parenting resources and strategies
Finding Local Providers
- Consult with your pediatrician, school counselor, or health insurance provider
- Get referrals to child mental health providers in your area
🎯 Take Action Today
At Mental Health Center Kids, we offer therapist-approved worksheets to help with depression management. These worksheets can be used both in therapy sessions or at home.
💳 Insurance Note
Many insurance plans cover mental health services. Contact your insurance provider to find in-network mental health professionals who specialize in treating depression in children and adolescents.