ICD-10 Code F43.1 – Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F43.1 – Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
What it is
F43.1 identifies post-traumatic stress disorder, a mental health condition that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. It is used when symptoms persist and affect daily functioning.
Clinical signs
Common findings include intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance of trauma reminders, negative mood changes, and heightened arousal. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use F43.1 when the record clearly documents PTSD as the diagnosis and links symptoms to a traumatic event. Code it for outpatient, inpatient, or behavioral health encounters when the provider confirms the disorder. Check documentation if the note only mentions stress, anxiety, or trauma exposure without a PTSD diagnosis.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute stress reaction, general anxiety, or grief unless PTSD is specifically diagnosed. Check documentation when the chart is vague or another trauma-related disorder is named.
Coding tip
Verify that the provider documents PTSD explicitly and, when available, the related traumatic event.