Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding 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 the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as 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,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” 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 focused her career on female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.