Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the tide of misogyny.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
