Space Traveler Reveals Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, 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,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.