Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “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 women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.