Irritability and anger

This code describes a patient presenting with symptoms of heightened irritability and/or anger that are not otherwise specified as part of a more definitive mental health diagnosis. It indicates a behavioral disturbance characterized by an increased propensity for annoyance, frustration, and hostile reactions. This code is typically used when these symptoms are significant enough to warrant clinical attention but do not meet criteria for a specific mood, anxiety, or personality disorder.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates irritability and/or anger as a primary presenting symptom or a significant concern, without a more specific underlying psychiatric diagnosis being established. This is often appropriate for initial assessments or when these symptoms are a transient response to stress or other factors. Documentation should explicitly mention "irritability" and/or "anger" as a chief complaint or a prominent finding.

• Do not use this code if the irritability/anger is clearly a symptom of a more specific mental health disorder (e.g., major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder); code the underlying condition instead.
• Consider if an underlying medical condition (e.g., thyroid dysfunction, substance use) is contributing to these symptoms; if so, code the medical condition first.
• This code is often used as a secondary diagnosis when the primary reason for the encounter is another condition, but irritability/anger is a significant co-occurring issue.