Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Following Journey

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.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.