Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath 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 in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.
