Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She described the press attention and digital reaction 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.
The group of women also included leaders in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.