Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“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 period after the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted 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 deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.