Mischa Barton's recent breakdown came after a three-day cocaine binge, according to reports.
On Thursday (16Jul09), the 23 year old was placed on involuntary psychiatric hold after reportedly suffering a meltdown and calling cops to her Los Angeles home the day before.
According to New York Post gossip column PageSix, friends of the former The O.C. star alerted police amid fears she would kill herself after three days of hard partying.
A pal tells the publication, "She's in very bad shape. She's running out of money and can't find love, so now she is looking for a good time to escape her misery. She is on a downward spiral. She is a mess. She is a suicidal, uninsurable mess."
Los Angeles police and Barton's representative have confirmed the actress required assistance for "a medical issue", but have yet to reveal further details.