Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.