Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath 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 short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of 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 conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.