How Do I Get Through It?
If you are struggling with postpartum depression, here are Aarti’s words of wisdom for taking your life back:

Arm yourself. Learn as much as you can about postpartum depression. This knowledge will help you and those around you understand what you’re going through.

Get help. “Part of what made the postpartum depression so bad was that I waited until my daughter was 8 months old to get help. I should have done it sooner,” Aarti said. “It’s up to you to take a step forward, raise your hand, say something is wrong, and get help. It’s not going to go away without you asking for and accepting help.” Help may come from those around you, support groups, or even your doctor. Use every resource you can find.

Be honest. Don’t hide your anger, frustration, sadness, or other emotions. Let others know how you’re feeling so that they can help in any way they can. “These things will fester in the shadows,” Aarti said. “Sweep them into the light, whether that means talking to your husband, your pastor, or even just aloud during your prayer time.”

Hold on to your faith. Aarti also shared how her experience challenged her faith. “I questioned [God], pummeled my fists into His chest, demanding to know why He would let this happen to His daughter.” But now, on the other side of her struggle, she encourages other women to cling to God, saying, “Even if you don’t ‘feel’ God listening to you, keep praying. He’s listening.”