Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse 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 brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“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.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.
