Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression 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 short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “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 women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
