05/19/2026
It’s mental health awareness month.
An estimated 20-33% of patients diagnosed with cancer will experience depression, anxiety, or another serious mental health disruption. It makes sense--cancer threatens and disrupts your life. When it comes to MPN cancer, that disruption is long-term, as MPNs require lifelong management.
It’s OK for you and your loved ones to feel sad, upset, overwhelmed, fearful, anxious, or even angry as you navigate your “new normal.” These feelings are not evidence of a mental health condition. However, ignoring them can lead to an episode of depression.
The good news is that there are many things you can do to avoid that outcome. Most of them are simple, and it's easy to get started.
(1) Acknowledge how you're feeling. Studies show that cancer patients who express their emotions and seek support from people they trust are less likely to experience depression.
(2) Don't self-isolate. Close connections and frequent contact with friends and family can keep depression at bay. Talk to your friend, sibling, partner, doctor, minister, rabbi—anyone who makes you comfortable.
(3) Move as much as possible. Exercise releases endorphins, or natural mood elevators, in the brain. Choosing exercise can also help you feel more in control of your life and body.
Always speak to your doctor and respect your limitations before exercising.
(4) Take an active role in improving your mental health. Remember that you are responsible for how you act on your feelings, and that’s a good thing! Try to embrace a problem-solving approach. Whether that involves exercise, structured social time, meditation, journaling or something else, your participation is the most important part.
(5) Seek out professional help when you need it. Even the most diligent self-care is not infallible. Sometimes, depression happens when you do not expect it. If you find yourself in that situation, you’re not alone, and help is available.
We’ve linked some free mental health resources for cancer patients below.
Take care.