Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.