Dual diagnosis is a situation in which two independent disorders exist, and most often denotes a co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis can help someone who might possibly not have been able to be helped previously, finish drug abuse because they can be properly diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder could have been misdiagnosed, not diagnosed at all, or mistreated that could have triggered and resulted in their substance abuse issues. Establishing the fact someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not just helps establish an efficient treatment course for them, but can also help clients better know what caused their substance abuse and how to prevent it later on. Addressing dual diagnosis can be a more extensive process when compared to a typical drug rehab program, and individuals with a dual diagnosis may need to participate in a substantial aftercare program which might include proper medical support along with further rehabilitation services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't imply the person will need to be medicated for the remainder of their lives either, and actually many individuals with a dual diagnosis experience much better outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative therapy is utilized.