Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.