Bronx doctors are being told to check patients for the blues as part of a new depression awareness campaign in the borough.

The city?s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene says approximately 16 percent of Bronx residents experienced frequent mental distress in 2005. Health officials are taking a two-pronged approach in battling depression by contacting doctors and launching a public awareness campaign.

Those who think they are depressed or who know someone who may be depressed should seek medical attention. For more information about getting screened for depression, people should call 311.