Astronaut Reveals Depression After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.