Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.