The founder of the peak Mr Fluffy support group has described increasing mental health impacts as the pending demolitions of homes pose a potential "crisis point" for residents.
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With the first demolitions and valuation opt-in decisions due within weeks, Fluffy Owners and Residents' Action Group convenor Brianna Heseltine said those dealing with often-hidden mental anguish should reach out and get professional help, as she herself had done.
The encouragement came after a Mr Fluffy home owner was arrested in the Sydney CBD on Friday after he allegedly made a threat to the national counter-terrorism threat hotline.
"I've been aware for some time there's been a growing number of incidents of mental health [issues] in our [Fluffy] community – adjustment disorder is one of them, which is common for people who are displaced from their families and communities – and depression and anxiety," she said.
"There are crisis points. People should be aware the upcoming demolition will have an impact on them, even if they're watching someone else's home being knocked down."
Asbestos Response Taskforce head Andrew Kefford said the first round of demolitions of Mr Fluffy homes would occur in June. The 51 homeowners yet to opt-in to the property valuation were sent a letter last week as the closing date of June 30 looms, he said.
Mr Kefford said mental health support was one of the first measures put in place after the taskforce was formed last year.
Support for those affected by anxiety and depression includes up to six free sessions with psychology coaches or, via a doctor's referral, free sessions with a psychologist.
All Mr Fluffy residents were invited to attend a public session with psychologist Dr Rob Gordon on June 3. Dr Gordon is one of the nation's leading trauma experts and visited Canberra after the 2003 bushfires.
NSW Police said the Fluffy home owner arrested on Friday, Duffy resident Marcus Thompson, 39, was detained under the Mental Health Act and remained at St Vincent's Hospital on Saturday afternoon. No charges have been laid.
Ms Heseltine, who knows the outspoken Mr Fluffy campaigner, said a candlelight gathering at Queanbeyan Park to show the community's care for the man and his family, and highlight the need for equality for affected NSW homeowners would occur on Tuesday, May 19 at 6pm.
"He is the very best husband and father and somebody who has done so much for so many on this issue," she said.
For assistance, call the Mental Health Triage intake line on 1800 629 354, Lifeline 131114
