Quick reference
- When to use
- Use F40.11 when the client presents with symptoms consistent with Social Anxiety Disorder, Performance Only that cause clinically significant distress or functional impairment, and the presentation is not better explained by another mental disorder, substance use, or medical condition.
- Duration
- Symptoms must be present for at least 6 months. Reassess severity and diagnosis at regular intervals. Update code if symptoms remit or change in character.
- Session codes
- Pair with CPT 90791 (initial evaluation), 90834 (45-min therapy), 90837 (60-min therapy), or 90847 (family therapy). Add 90785 for interactive complexity. Use 96127 for standardized screening (e.g., GAD-7).
- Key indicators
- Excessive worry or fear disproportionate to actual threat • Avoidance behaviors • Physical symptoms (muscle tension, restlessness, fatigue) • Functional impairment in work, social, or daily activities
What F40.11 represents
This specifier applies when the social anxiety is restricted to performance situations – public speaking, performing music, giving presentations. The person may function well in other social contexts.
Key diagnostic criteria
Same criteria as F40.10 but anxiety is limited to speaking or performing in public. No significant anxiety in other social situations.
Documentation essentials
Document the specific performance contexts. Note absence of anxiety in non-performance social situations.
Differential diagnosis
Distinguish from generalized social anxiety, normal stage fright (must be out of proportion and cause impairment).
Treatment planning
Performance-focused CBT, exposure to public speaking situations, beta-blockers for situational use.
Insurance & billing
Accepted code. Document functional impact on career or education.
Updates & changes
Monitor for updates on this specifier in future revisions.
Documentation pitfalls
Don't assign if anxiety extends beyond performance situations. Those cases warrant F40.10.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.).