Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to 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

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.