Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance 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 time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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