Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
