Barton 'held in psychiatric unit'

Mischa Barton has been taken to a psychiatric unit against her will, reports claim.

The 23-year-old actress is apparently being held at Cedars Sinai Medical Centre in Los Angeles after being escorted there by police.

Access Hollywood claims that detectives were called to the star's house to assist with a "medical issue" and placed her under an involuntary psychiatric hold, also known as a 5150.

Authorities can hold a person against their will only if they present a danger to themselves or others or suffer from a mental disorder. A patient can be held by the hospital for up to 72 hours if they are believed to be in danger.

Karen Rayner, a representative for LAPD, said that they are "currently assisting" Barton. The OC actress's spokesperson Craig Schneider later told People that the police were only present to protect the star from the media.

Last year, Barton was arrested and charged with drink driving. She later entered rehab.