Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
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.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost 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 torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
