F43.21 – Adjustment disorder with depressed mood

Read about F43.21 ICD-10 code for adjustment disorder with depressed mood, including clinical details, synonyms, and related codes.

By Karina Jimenea on Jul 16, 2025.

Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.

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F43.21 diagnosis code: Adjustment disorder with depressed mood

F43.21 is the ICD-10 code for adjustment disorder with depressed mood.
This diagnosis is given when an individual has difficulty adapting to a significant life stressor, like a stressful life event, leading to a depressed mood.
The patient may have emotional or behavioral symptoms like persistent sadness, tearfulness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in daily activities.
Adjustment disorder with depressed mood typically occurs within three months of the stressor and should not persist beyond six months after the stressor has been removed or resolved.
Early intervention is crucial to help individuals effectively manage their emotional responses and prevent long-term complications.

Is F43.21 billable?

Yes, F43.21 is a billable ICD-10 code. Mental health professionals can use this code for insurance claims and reimbursement purposes. However, accurate coding ensures proper documentation and treatment planning for patients diagnosed with adjustment disorder with depressed mood.

Clinical information

Adjustment disorder with depressed mood, a mental disorder or mental health condition, can be triggered by various stressors, such as relationship issues, work-related problems, or financial difficulties.
There are factors that may influence symptoms severity such as the nature and impact of the stressor, availability of support systems, individual vulnerabilities, personality traits, life experiences, and other mental health conditions.
A comprehensive assessment is necessary to rule out other mental health conditions or a preexisting mental disorder with similar symptoms.
Treatment options may include psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral or interpersonal therapy, to help individuals develop healthy coping strategies from the severe stress.
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Support from family, friends, and support groups can also play a vital role in recovery and overall well-being.

Synonyms include

Reactive depressive disorder
Situational depression
Adjustment reaction with depressed mood
Depressive reaction
Adjustment disorder with depressed mood, acute

Other ICD-10 codes commonly used for adjustment disorder

F43.20: Adjustment disorder, unspecified
F43.22: Adjustment disorder with anxiety
F43.23: Adjustment disorder with mixed anxiety and depressed mood
F43.24: Adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct
F43.25: Adjustment disorder with mixed disturbance of emotions and conduct
F43.29: Adjustment disorder with other symptoms

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