As your child ages, it can be both an exciting and scary time as a parent. You want everything for your child and most likely worry constantly about how your child's life is going to turn out. One of the things you may worry about most is drug and alcohol abuse. If your child is using drugs, or if alcohol is becoming an issue in your child's life, there are usually signs that you can watch out for. If you aren't sure what these signs are, read on for some signs of abuse to help you get your child the help they need to get sober and to stay that way.

1. Mood Swings

Your teenager is going to be moody from time to time, but if those swings are over the top, it may be because of drug or alcohol abuse. Moodiness is a part of growing up, but if the moodiness seems to be never ending and is getting worse, it may be due to something more than just hormones and growing up. It could be the highs and lows experienced with drug and alcohol abuse. 

2. Change In Grades

You may notice that your child's grades are getting worse. If your child was never having any trouble at all before and is suddenly having issues with keeping up with homework or their grades have changed, it may be because of drug or alcohol abuse. Pay attention to your child's grades and talk to your child's teacher about how their performance in school has been. Your child's teachers may have also noticed a change at school and with their behavior and abilities at school as well.

3. Difference In Friends

If you have noticed a difference in the group of friends your child has been hanging around with, it may be due to drugs and alcohol. Your child may develop other friendships over time, but if all of their friends have changed or there is an entire change in the type of people your child is hanging around with, it may be more than just a change in friends. Your child may also have a very different change in interests as well. Your child may not be as interested in sports or studies and may suddenly have no interests at all. When this happens, it's something you should pay close attention to.

These are just a few of the signs you should pay close attention to, as it may be a sign of drug or alcohol abuse. Also pay attention to physical changes in your child as well. If you suspect drug and alcohol abuse, talk to a drug and alcohol treatment professional and get your child help. A professional may recommend a teen drug outpatient program for your child. To learn more about these programs, talk with a company such as Bridgeway Recovery Services Inc.