Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
