The state's failed mental health system has forced mentally ill residents to fend for themselves for treatment and medication, town officials said in a release. The location of UNC Hospitals uniquely affects Chapel Hill and Orange County because the hospital discharges some mentally ill patients who stay in Chapel Hill.

"The future of mental health care in Chapel Hill and throughout North Carolina is uncertain," Foy said. "Therefore, local municipalities must think more about how this will affect the health and vitality of our communities."

The task force will:

• Assess the state of the mental health care system in the greater Chapel Hill community, focusing on the services provided, funding and impact on the community.

• Create broader awareness of mental health care issues in Chapel Hill and generate discussion.

• Provide recommendations to the Town Council and county commissioners regarding the future of mental health care services in Chapel Hill and Orange County.

"Mental health issues are sometimes invisible," said Ammarell, who studied the impact of deinstitutionalization of the mental health system in Massachusetts. "This task force will offer a great opportunity to come together to make sure we are addressing the needs of Chapel Hill residents."