Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Hidden Harm

Parental substance misuse, this includes alcohol, causes serious harm to children at every age from conception to adulthood, yet their needs have often remained unseen and unmet.

This section will provide information for professionals, parents and carers about how we can work together to support the Hidden Harm agenda.

Mephedrone

There has been a lot in the news recently regarding Mephedrone or MCAT as it is also known. The following is a brief summary about it. Information from the DCSF for schools is also included below.

Mephedrone is a stimulant drug with effects similar to MDMA producing euphoria, alertness, talkativeness and feelings of empathy. It can also cause anxiety and paranoid states and risk over stimulating the heart and nervous system to cause fits. Severe nosebleeds have been reported after snorting. Mephedrone has been linked to the death of a young woman in Sweden in 2008 and more recently deaths in England. It is a white or off-white powder usually sold on the internet as a legal high and described as a plant food or a research chemical not for human consumption. Sometimes mixed with other cathinones and caffeine.

Reports say that it can be compulsive to use and can create a state of psychological dependence.

MCAT A powerful psychoactive stimulant usually snorted but can be smoked and may be used by other routes.

Confidential Helplines

If you or a member of your family has a problem with drug or alcohol misuse the  24/7 helplines listed will  direct you to find the most appropriate treatment provider.  These helplines are confidential.

Stockton Treatment Helpline 0800 0522050

Cleveland Wide Helpline 0808 1880247

You can also report drug related crime at any time confidentially to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

There is also a FRANK national helpline where you can get general advice and information on drugs 0800 776600

Web Links

Stockton Council is not responsible for the content of external websites.

• National Tackling Drugs Week