Alcohol abuse with alcohol-induced mood disorder

This code signifies a pattern of problematic alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, specifically when alcohol consumption directly causes a mood disturbance. The mood disorder, such as depression or anxiety, is a direct physiological consequence of alcohol intoxication or withdrawal.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links a patient's mood disorder to their alcohol abuse. This is appropriate for patients exhibiting symptoms of a mood disorder that resolve or significantly improve with abstinence from alcohol, or worsen with alcohol use. Documentation should specify both alcohol abuse and the alcohol-induced nature of the mood disturbance.

• Ensure the provider explicitly states the mood disorder is "alcohol-induced" or "due to alcohol use."
• Do not use this code if the mood disorder predates or is independent of the alcohol abuse.
• Sequence this code first if the alcohol-induced mood disorder is the primary reason for the encounter.