Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams 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 aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.