ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for self esteem low
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Low › self esteem”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding self esteem low
The ICD-10-CM code for self esteem low is R45.81 (Low self-esteem).
Within R45.8 (other symptoms and signs involving emotional state), R45.81 is specifically for low self-esteem. Related codes cover Worries (R45.82), excessive crying of child, adolescent or adult (R45.83), Anhedonia (R45.84), Homicidal and suicidal ideations (R45.85), emotional lability (R45.86), Impulsiveness (R45.87), nonsuicidal self-harm (R45.88) and other symptoms and signs involving emotional state (R45.89).
It is not a CC or MCC, so as a secondary diagnosis it doesn't change the MS-DRG severity level.
In MS-DRG v44.0, it is part of the grouping logic for DRG 884 (Organic Disturbances and Intellectual Disability, relative weight 1.6001), in MDC 19 (Mental Diseases and Disorders), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.
Common questions about self esteem low ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for self esteem low?
- R45.81 — Low self-esteem.
Is R45.81 billable?
- Yes. R45.81 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can R45.81 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict R45.81 as a principal diagnosis.
Is R45.81 a CC or MCC?
- No. R45.81 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.