ICD-10 Code F93.0 – Separation anxiety disorder of childhood (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F93.0 – Separation anxiety disorder of childhood
What it is
F93.0 identifies separation anxiety disorder of childhood, a condition marked by excessive fear or distress when a child is separated from a parent or other attachment figure. You use it when the anxiety is developmentally inappropriate and clinically significant.
Clinical signs
Typical features include persistent worry about losing the attachment figure, refusal to go to school or sleep away from home, and repeated complaints of physical symptoms during separation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly documents separation anxiety disorder in a child, with symptoms causing distress or functional impairment. It fits outpatient, emergency, or behavioral health notes when the diagnosis is established by the clinician. Check documentation if the note only describes normal clinginess or a transient adjustment reaction.
Do not use for
Do not use F93.0 for routine shyness, brief protest at separation, or anxiety better explained by another disorder. Check documentation if the chart indicates generalized anxiety, panic, or an adjustment disorder instead.
Coding tip
Code F93.0 only when the provider documents the disorder, not just separation-related behavior or parent concern.