Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.
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 intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
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.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
