Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.