Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call 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.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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