Depression does not always occur as a single episode. For many clients, depressive symptoms return over time, creating a recurrent pattern that disrupts functioning even during periods of partial recovery. When these episodes are neither mild nor severe—but still cause clear impairment—the ICD-10 code for moderate recurrent depression is the appropriate diagnostic classification.
The ICD-10 code F33.1 is used for Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, Moderate. It applies when an individual experiences repeated depressive episodes marked by clinically significant symptoms such as persistent low mood, loss of interest or pleasure, fatigue, sleep or appetite changes, impaired concentration, and reduced self-esteem. These symptoms interfere with daily functioning but do not reach the severity seen in severe depressive episodes. F33.1 is a billable ICD-10-CM code, used for diagnosis, treatment planning, and reimbursement.
This code falls under the F30–F39 category of Mental and Behavioral Disorders, specifically within mood [affective] disorders, and explicitly excludes any history of manic or hypomanic episodes, which would indicate bipolar disorder (F30–F31).
Key Characteristics of F33.1: Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, Moderate
Recurrent Episodes: Involves multiple depressive episodes over time, with periods of partial or full recovery between episodes.
Moderate Severity: Symptoms are clinically significant but less severe than in major depressive episodes with severe specifiers. Common features include low mood, hopelessness or irritability, reduced interest or pleasure, fatigue or low energy, sleep disturbances, appetite or weight changes, difficulty concentrating, and reduced self-esteem.
Excludes Bipolar Disorder: This diagnosis applies only when there is no history of manic or hypomanic episodes, which would be classified under bipolar disorder codes (F30–F31).
What This Diagnosis Indicates
Not a Single Episode: Reflects a recurring pattern of depression rather than a one-time depressive episode.
Diagnostic and Billing Code: Used by healthcare providers to classify the severity and course of depression for treatment planning, tracking, and reimbursement.
When to Use ICD-10 code F33.1 for Moderate Recurrent Depression
The ICD-10 code for moderate recurrent depression should be used when a client has experienced multiple depressive episodes over time, with at least one prior episode separated by a period of remission. Symptoms are more pronounced than mild depression and cause noticeable distress and functional impairment, but do not involve psychotic features or severe disability.
This diagnosis reflects a pattern of recurring depression rather than a single event, making it clinically important for long-term treatment planning and relapse prevention.
Distinguishing Moderate From Mild Depression
The key difference between mild and moderate depression lies in symptom intensity and functional impact. In moderate depressive episodes, clients typically experience:
- Clear difficulty maintaining work performance
- Strain in interpersonal relationships
- Increased effort required for daily self-care
- Multiple cognitive or somatic symptoms
- Persistent distress that affects quality of life
While individuals may continue to function outwardly, moderate depression often involves significant internal effort that is not immediately visible without careful assessment.
Recurrent Depression vs Single-Episode Depression
A defining feature of F33.1 is recurrence. This diagnosis requires:
- At least one previous depressive episode
- A documented period of remission, typically two months or longer
This distinguishes recurrent depression from single-episode major depressive disorder (F32 codes). Recurrent presentations are associated with a higher risk of future episodes and require ongoing monitoring.
Related ICD-10 Codes for Depressive Disorders
Depending on severity and course, clinicians may also consider:
- F32.1: Major depressive disorder, single episode, moderate
- F33.0: Major depressive disorder, recurrent, mild
- F33.2: Major depressive disorder, recurrent, severe without psychotic features
- F33.3: Major depressive disorder, recurrent, severe with psychotic features
- F33.40–F33.42: Recurrent depression in remission
- F33.8–F33.9: Other or unspecified recurrent depressive disorders
Interventions and CPT Codes for Moderate Recurrent Depression
Treatment for moderate recurrent depression is typically evidence-based and individualized, often combining psychotherapy with medication when clinically indicated.
Individual Psychotherapy
Supports emotional regulation, cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, and insight into recurring depressive patterns.
- 90832 (30 minutes)
- 90834 (45 minutes)
- 90837 (60 minutes)
Group Psychotherapy
Provides peer support, normalization, and shared coping strategies.
90853: Group psychotherapy
Family Psychotherapy
Addresses relational stressors and strengthens family support systems.
- 90846: Family therapy without patient
- 90847: Family therapy with patient
Clinical Support for Clients With Moderate Recurrent Depression
Clients with moderate recurrent depression often appear functional while struggling internally with motivation, energy, and emotional burden. Effective care requires consistent assessment, longitudinal tracking of symptoms, and clear documentation of recurrence patterns.
Accurate use of the ICD-10 code for moderate recurrent depression supports continuity of care, medical necessity, and treatment alignment over time. Mentalyc AI documentation platform helps clinicians document recurring depressive patterns clearly and consistently—reducing administrative burden while preserving clinical accuracy and supporting better long-term outcomes.