Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from various fields.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.
