Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.