Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized 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 heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.