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  2. ICD-10-CM Codes List
  3. Z00–Z99
  4. Z55-Z65
  5. Problems related to social environment (Z60)

Problems related to social environment (Z60)

The ICD-10 code Z60 and its subcodes identify specific problems related to an individual's social environment that affect well-being but are not classified as mental disorders. These codes are essential for documenting social and psychosocial issues impacting health.

Z60 covers a broad range of social difficulties, from struggles adjusting to life changes (Z60.0); sometimes called midlife crisis or empty nest syndrome; to challenges of living alone (Z60.2). Acculturation difficulty (Z60.3) addresses barriers due to cultural differences or language problems that interfere with accessing community resources. Social exclusion and rejection (Z60.4) include experiences such as social isolation and withdrawal, while Z60.5 highlights the impact of perceived discrimination or persecution, including bullying or religious discrimination. The category Z60.8 captures other diverse social environment problems, such as lack of social support, unsafe or unfriendly surroundings, and difficulty adhering to community rules. Finally, Z60.9 is used when social problems are present but unspecified, including disturbances in social patterns or social maladjustment. These codes help healthcare providers recognize and address social factors affecting patients' health and guide appropriate interventions.

Clinical Terms

The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.

Cultural Deprivation

The absence of certain expected and acceptable cultural phenomena in the environment which results in the failure of the individual to communicate and respond in the most appropriate manner within the context of society. Language acquisition and language use are commonly used in assessing this concept.

Social Adjustment

Adaptation of the person to the social environment. Adjustment may take place by adapting the self to the environment or by changing the environment. (From Campbell, Psychiatric Dictionary, 1996).

Social Isolation

The separation of individuals or groups resulting in the lack of or minimizing of social contact and/or communication. This separation may be accomplished by physical separation, by social barriers and by psychological mechanisms. In the latter, there may be interaction but no real communication.