Hostility

This code describes a state of unfriendliness or opposition, characterized by antagonistic behavior or feelings. It represents a psychological symptom or behavioral manifestation rather than a specific mental health disorder. It often involves aggression, anger, or resentment directed towards others.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states "hostility" as a presenting symptom or behavioral observation, particularly in psychiatric evaluations or behavioral health encounters. It is appropriate when hostility is not part of a more specific, diagnosable mental health condition that has its own code. Documentation should clearly describe the hostile behavior or affect.

• Do not code hostility if it is an integral symptom of a more specific mental health diagnosis (e.g., conduct disorder, bipolar disorder with aggressive features).
• Consider sequencing this code after a primary diagnosis if hostility is a secondary symptom or behavioral problem.
• Ensure documentation differentiates between transient hostility and chronic patterns of aggressive behavior, which might warrant a more specific code.