Dependent personality disorder

This code represents a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of, leading to submissive and clinging behavior and fears of separation. Individuals with this disorder struggle with making everyday decisions without excessive reassurance and have difficulty initiating projects or doing things on their own.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of dependent personality disorder, characterized by a pattern of dependence and submissiveness. This diagnosis should be made by a qualified mental health professional based on established diagnostic criteria.

• Ensure documentation specifies "dependent personality disorder" and not just dependent traits or features.
• Differentiate from other personality disorders, particularly avoidant personality disorder, which also involves fear of rejection but manifests as social inhibition rather than clinging.
• Consider co-occurring mental health conditions; sequence the primary diagnosis first if applicable.