More Than F84
What is F84?
F84 is a diagnostic code from the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) that falls under pervasive developmental disorders—most commonly associated with autism spectrum conditions. While these codes are used in medical and insurance systems to identify and access services, they reduce deeply complex, human experiences into a short label.
Why We Created “More Than F84”
“More Than F84” was created to push back against the idea that a person can be defined by a diagnostic code.
At Anniston Academy, we see students every day who are:
- Creative thinkers
- Deep processors
- Pattern recognizers
- Innovators, artists, and problem-solvers
But in systems like healthcare and education, they’re often reduced to “F84”—a number tied to deficits rather than strengths.
More Than F84 is a statement and a movement.
It means:
- You are more than a diagnosis
- You are more than paperwork and eligibility criteria
- You are more than what systems can measure
It also reflects our commitment to neuroaffirming, therapeutic education—where differences are not something to “fix,” but something to understand, support, and celebrate.
Why it matters
Because when we shift from labels to people, everything changes:
- How we teach
- How we support
- How young people see themselves
“More Than F84” isn’t just a phrase—it’s a reminder that behind every code is a whole person with depth, identity, and potential that cannot be captured in a chart.
