Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.
The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“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.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.