Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – 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 questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

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