Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
