Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, 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 fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
