Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath 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 in the spring, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.