Depression and other mood disorders

Man hunched over near a wall.

MPN patients may have higher risk of depression and other mood disorders. The medical cause for this association between MPNs and mood disorders is not currently known.

Common symptoms of depression can include fatigue, changes in eating or sleeping habits, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, difficulty concentrating and/or loss of interest in activities or hobbies that were once enjoyable. It is important for patients to tell their doctors if they are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or any other mood disorders.

There are a variety of treatments for depression and other mood disorders, and the best treatment can be different for every patient. Depression is commonly treated with medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of therapies.

Many patients ask if those with MPNs are more prone to depression and anxiety. Dr. Ellen Ritchie discusses in this video: 

Related Faculty

Guy Maytal , M.D.,

Dr. Maytal is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and serves as the Chief of Integrated Care and Psychiatric Oncology at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian. He is widely regarded for his expertise at the interface of internal medicine and psychiatry, in particular working with the oncology team to care for patients with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses. 

Clinical Profile (POPS)
Dr. Guy Maytal Headshot

Guy Maytal , M.D.,

Richard T. Silver MD Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Center 525 East 70th St., Starr Pavillion, 3rd Floor New York, NY 10021 SilverMPNCenter@med.cornell.edu