ICD-10 Code F43.81 – Prolonged Grief Disorder (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F43.81 – Prolonged grief disorder
What it is
F43.81 identifies prolonged grief disorder, a condition in which grief remains intense and persistent beyond expected norms after a death. Use it when documentation shows a prolonged, disabling grief response rather than uncomplicated bereavement.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may include persistent yearning or preoccupation with the deceased, difficulty accepting the death, and ongoing emotional pain. Functional impairment, avoidance, or marked distress should be documented; clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the clinician specifically diagnoses prolonged grief disorder and the record supports the diagnosis. It may apply in behavioral health or primary care notes when grief symptoms are persistent and impair daily functioning. Check documentation if the diagnosis is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use it for normal bereavement or for grief reactions that do not meet documented criteria. Avoid using it when the chart instead supports another mental health diagnosis or when the provider has not specified prolonged grief disorder.
Coding tip
Code only when the provider documents prolonged grief disorder by name or clearly supports it in the assessment.