Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
