ICD-10-CM code Z91.5 describes personal history of self-harm. History of self-injurious behavior; useful for risk and safety planning. It is a billable, specific code valid for claim submission. It is grouped under the “Factors Influencing Health (Z Codes)” section of the mental, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental disorders chapter.
When to use Z91.5
Z codes report encounters and circumstances that affect health but are not themselves illnesses, such as screening visits, counseling encounters, and psychosocial stressors. Use them as primary or secondary codes to capture context that supports medical necessity. For Z91.5 specifically, history of self-injurious behavior; useful for risk and safety planning.
Documentation & billing
Document the reason for the encounter or the specific psychosocial circumstance. Pair a Z code with a diagnosis code when a condition is also present.
Common pitfalls
- Using a Z code as the only diagnosis when a mental health condition is documented.
- Confusing a screening encounter (Z13.3-) with an established diagnosis.
- Omitting psychosocial stressors that support the treatment plan.
Common search terms for Z91.5
Clinicians often look up Z91.5 using plain-language terms. This code maps to:
Frequently asked questions
What is ICD-10-CM code Z91.5?
Personal history of self-harm. History of self-injurious behavior; useful for risk and safety planning.
Is Z91.5 a billable ICD-10-CM code?
Yes. Z91.5 (Personal history of self-harm) is a billable, specific ICD-10-CM code that can be reported on a claim. Confirm the current official descriptor against the CDC code set and your payer’s policies before submitting.
What should I document to support Z91.5?
Document the reason for the encounter or the specific psychosocial circumstance. Pair a Z code with a diagnosis code when a condition is also present.