Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.