Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She described 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.