Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.