Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“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.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also included experts in different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
