Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response 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 mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

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

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.