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

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision 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 vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in various fields.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.