Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.
She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also featured leaders in various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
