Passive Suicidal Ideation ICD-10 Code: R45.851
Last updated: January 31, 2025
The ICD-10 code for passive suicidal ideation is R45.851 (Suicidal ideations). This code captures suicidal thoughts without active plan or intent. Document underlying mental health conditions separately.
Primary Code Details
| Code | Description | Billable |
|---|---|---|
| R45.851 | Suicidal ideations | Yes |
Related Codes
Documentation Requirements
- Document specific nature of ideation (passive vs active, with or without plan)
- Complete suicide risk assessment
- Document any underlying psychiatric diagnoses
- Note current safety plan and level of care needed
Common Coding Scenarios
Documentation:
"Patient endorses passive suicidal ideation ('wish I wouldn't wake up') without plan or intent. Major depressive disorder, single episode, moderate."
Code:
R45.851 - Suicidal ideations
Rationale:
Code R45.851 for the suicidal ideation. Also code F32.1 for the underlying depression. Sequence based on reason for encounter.
Documentation:
"Depression screening positive, but patient denies any suicidal ideation when asked directly."
Code:
F32.9 - Major depressive disorder, single episode, unspecified
Rationale:
Do not code R45.851 if patient denies suicidal ideation. Code only the documented depression.
Frequently Asked Questions
R45.851 (Suicidal ideations) is the code for both passive and active suicidal ideation. ICD-10-CM does not distinguish between passive and active ideation in coding - document the distinction in the clinical record.
Yes. Suicidal ideation (R45.851) should be coded separately from depression (F32 or F33 codes). Both conditions should be documented and coded when present.
No, R45.851 is used for all forms of suicidal ideation. The clinical documentation should specify passive vs active, presence of plan, and intent level.
Related Resources
Last updated: January 2025. Code data reflects ICD-10-CM 2026 version. This guide is for educational purposes only. Always verify codes against current official guidelines.