Dual diagnosis can be a situation in which two independent disorders are present, and most often describes a co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis will help an individual who might not have been able to be helped during the past, finish substance abuse because they can be correctly diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder may have been misdiagnosed, not diagnosed at all, or mistreated that may have prompted and led to their drug abuse issues. Establishing the fact that someone is in fact a dual diagnosis client not just helps establish a highly effective course of treatment for them, but will also help clients better determine what caused their drug use and how to prevent it in the foreseeable future. Handling dual diagnosis may be a more extensive process than a typical drug rehab program, and people who have a dual diagnosis might be required to take part in a substantial aftercare program which may include appropriate medical support along with continued rehab services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't imply the person should be medicated for the rest of their lives either, and actually many individuals who have a dual diagnosis experience more effective outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative therapy is utilized.