ICD-10 Code F40.1 – Social phobias (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F40.1 – Social phobias
What it is
F40.1 identifies social phobias, an anxiety disorder marked by a persistent fear of social or performance situations. The fear is out of proportion and leads to avoidance or distress.
Clinical signs
Typical features include intense fear of embarrassment, scrutiny, or negative judgment in social settings. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use F40.1 when the provider documents social phobia or social anxiety focused on social interaction or performance situations. Code it when the record supports avoidance, marked distress, or functional impairment from these fears. Check documentation if the note is nonspecific or uses another anxiety diagnosis.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for generalized anxiety, panic disorder, or simple shyness without a documented phobic disorder. Do not assign it when the record only mentions temporary nervousness.
Coding tip
Look for provider wording such as “social phobia,” “social anxiety disorder,” or clearly documented fear of social situations before assigning F40.1.