Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.