In the category of hyperactivity/impulsivity, an individual must have six or more of the following symptoms: often fidgets while sitting, often leaves seat in structure setting, often runs around inappropriately (restlessness), often has trouble playing quietly, often talks excessively, often blurts out answers before question completed, often has difficulty waiting turn and often interrupts or intrudes on others. Some of these symptoms must have present before the age of seven, and they must have lasted for at least six months. The DSM-IV Psychiatric disorders defines these criteria. You should have your child tested if you believe that he or she has these symptoms as described above.

In the category of inattention, an individual must have six or more of the following symptoms: often makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work and other activities, often has difficulty keeping attention sustained in task or play activities, often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly, often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities, often avoids and dislikes tasks that require sustained mental effort, often loses things that are necessary for everyday life, often is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli and often is forgetful in daily activities. Some of these symptoms must have been present before the age of seven, and they must have lasted at least six months. This is also defined in the DSM-IV manual for Psychiatric disorders.

The combined type of ADHD is actually the most common among ADHD sufferers. They are also the individuals most at risk for other negative problems in their lives due to the nature of the disorder. First of all, children with Combined Type ADHD have higher rates of conduct disorder (Conduct Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder). Also, they have higher rates of bipolar disorder, another Psychiatric disorder.. As a while, children and adults with combined type area at a higher risk for other psychiatric disorders. Parents who have a child with this type must be extremely vigilant in the care of their children. They really must constantly be on the lookout for problems in other arenas of their lives besides specific symptoms of ADHD. As a side note, speaking to a medical professional from the outset can minimize any chance that your child will experience difficulties in their lives. Just keep in mind that problems in the emotional, psychological and social domains are a result of a response to having ADHD, and not the disorder itself.

As your child with Combined Type ADHD reaches their teenage years and into young adulthood, they will be at a higher risk for many things such as illegal drug use, general illegal activities, overdrinking and other activities of concern. Raising your child will involve more dedication and vigilance in all areas. You must spend the time to help your child or children with this disorder.