Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

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