There was an increase in involuntary child and adult admissions to mental health services in 2011, according to the Mental Health Commission.
In its annual report published today, it also said it had made a submission to Government calling for electro-convulsive therapy not to be given to unwilling patients.
The report by the Inspector of Mental Health Services also noted an increase in the use of continuous seclusions.
There were 2,057 involuntary adult admissions to mental health services in 2011, an increase of 5% on the previous year.
It found that 326 children were admitted to approved centres, with a third being sent to adult units.
There were 20 admitted involuntarily, which was an increase from the 13 involuntary child admissions in 2010.
A separate report by the Inspector also noted an increase in the use of continuous seclusions of over 72 hours, or even a week.
It found only three mental health units were fully compliant with regulations in 2011.
Commission Chairman Dr Edmund O'Dea has warned that it remains to be seen whether the €35m ring-fenced for improvements this year will be diverted to keeping current services afloat.
The Commission also welcomed yesterday's announcement by Minister Kathleen Lynch that the long-awaited Mental Capacity Bill will be published this month.
