Dual diagnosis can be a situation in which two independent disorders are present, and most typically describes a co-occurring drug abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis may help someone that may not have been able to be helped during the past, put an end to drug abuse by being properly diagnosed and helped. Their mental health disorder could have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or treated incorrectly which could have prompted and led to their drug abuse issues. Establishing the fact someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not simply helps establish an efficient course of treatment for them, but could also help clients better determine what led to their drug use and the way to prevent it in the foreseeable future. Addressing dual diagnosis can be a more extensive process than a typical drug rehab program, and people who have a dual diagnosis might be required to participate in a substantial aftercare program which can include proper medical support in addition to further rehabilitation services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't imply the individual should be medicated for the remainder of their lives either, and actually many individuals with a dual diagnosis experience more effective outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative treatment methods are utilized.