Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.
