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

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also included leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.