If you have recently sent your child off to college, congratulations! He or she is going to begin a new life at school with new friends, hobbies, and opportunities. At the same time, the age of those just beginning college is also often associated with the age at which people begin to exhibit signs of substance abuse.

Substance abuse can result after changes in living arrangements, new friends, losing touch with family members, and even the stress of taking exams. If you suspect your child may have substance abuse disorder after going to college, you need to look out for these signs.

Not Meeting Obligations

When college students go to school, they may underestimate the amount of work required to make good grades. Students who struggle with substance abuse disorder may not attend class often and may miss turning in assignments. Some students may even be given a notice that tells them they are on academic probation.

Withdrawing from Social Life

Students who live with substance abuse or addiction may struggle with maintaining a healthy social life. If your child isn't responding to friends and seems to avoid being around others, he or she may have a problem.

On the contrary, some people may begin using substances after getting involved in a new group of friends. It is incredibly common to meet an entirely new friend group in college, so this on its own should not be considered a sign of abuse.

Drinking Frequently

If your child is over the age of 21, you may know that he or she drinks alcohol. Unfortunately, you might also realize that the drinking is more frequent than one might expect even for a college student. Drinking most nights and at great volume can be a sign of addiction.

Shifting Appearance & Health

Many people who have a substance abuse disorder struggle with maintaining their former appearance. For example, some people may lose a lot of weight if they are abusing certain drugs, while drinking large amounts of alcohol can actually lead to weight gain. Additionally, you may notice that a lack of sleep is taking a toll on your child's appearance as well.

Often, the best time to look for the signs of substance abuse is when your child is home for a break. Addiction can also rear its head when your child is busiest, trying to prepare for the demands associated with school exams and work. If you're worried about your child, substance abuse treatment might help.