Dual diagnosis is a circumstance in which two independent disorders exist, and most typically describes a co-occurring drug abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis might help a person that may possibly not have been able to be helped during the past, end drug or alcohol abuse because they can be properly diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder could have been misdiagnosed, not diagnosed at all, or treated incorrectly which may have prompted and resulted in their substance abuse issues. Establishing the truth that someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not merely helps establish an effective course of treatment for them, but could also help clients better understand what triggered their drug abuse and how to prevent it in the future. Handling dual diagnosis can be a more extensive process than the usual typical drug rehab program, and people with a dual diagnosis might be required to take part in an extensive aftercare program which can include appropriate 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 rest of their lives either, and actually many individuals who have a dual diagnosis experience more effective outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative treatment methods are employed.