Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.