Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler 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.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.