Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
