F60.6 Avoidant personality disorder

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Avoidant Personality Disorder (AvPD)
- ICD-10 code: F60.6

#### Summary
Avoidant Personality Disorder is a psychiatric condition characterized by persistent feelings of inadequacy, sensitivity to negative evaluation, and extreme social inhibition. Individuals with this disorder often view themselves as socially inept and are preoccupied with being criticized or rejected in social situations.

#### Causes
- Genetic predisposition may play a role.
- Childhood experiences such as rejection or criticism.
- Environmental factors and personal relationships.

#### Risk Factors
- Family history of personality disorders or other mental health conditions.
- Experiences of childhood trauma or neglect.
- Temperamental traits such as shyness or fearfulness.

#### Symptoms
- Avoidance of occupational activities involving significant interpersonal contact.
- Unwillingness to be involved with people unless certain of being liked.
- Restraint in intimate relationships for fear of being shamed or ridiculed.
- Preoccupation with being criticized or rejected in social situations.
- Perception of inadequacy and inferiority to others.

#### Diagnosis
- Clinical evaluation by a mental health professional.
- Use of standardized psychological assessment instruments and criteria from DSM-5 or ICD-10.

#### Treatment Options
- **Psychotherapy**: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and group therapy can help improve social skills, self-esteem, and reduce avoidance behavior.
- **Medications**: Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to alleviate associated symptoms like depression or anxiety.
- **Supportive therapy**: Guidance and encouragement to engage in social activities.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Long-term outlook varies; improvements can be made with consistent treatment.
- Regular monitoring and therapy sessions are essential to prevent relapse and manage symptoms effectively.

#### Complications
- Social isolation and potential to develop depression or anxiety.
- Difficulty maintaining employment or personal relationships due to avoidance behavior.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Encouragement of gradual exposure to social situations.
- Building a strong support network of family and friends.
- Stress management techniques such as mindfulness or relaxation exercises.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Persistent feelings of inadequacy affecting daily life or relationships.
- Severe avoidance leading to social isolation or occupational impairment.
- Development of additional mental health disorders like depression or anxiety.

#### Additional Resources
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): [www.nimh.nih.gov](https://www.nimh.nih.gov)
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): [www.adaa.org](https://adaa.org)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate use of code F60.6 by confirming a professional diagnosis aligns with ICD-10 criteria.
- Be cautious not to confuse with other personality disorders that present overlapping symptoms.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Avoidant personality disorder

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