Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

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

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.