Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
