Dual diagnosis is a situation whereby two independent disorders exist, and most often describes a co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis can help someone that may not have been able to be helped previously, finish substance abuse because they can be correctly diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder could have been misdiagnosed, not diagnosed at all, or treated incorrectly that could have prompted and led to their drug abuse problems. Establishing the fact someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not just helps establish a highly effective course of treatment for them, but may also help clients better know what caused their substance abuse and the way to prevent it later on. Handling dual diagnosis is often a more extensive process when compared to a typical drug rehab program, and folks with a dual diagnosis might need to participate in an extensive aftercare program which may include appropriate medical support along with further treatment services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't mean that the person will need to be medicated for the remainder of their lives either, and in reality many people with a dual diagnosis experience more effective results when treated holistically and when alternative treatment methods are utilized.