Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.