Dual diagnosis is a circumstance whereby two independent disorders exist, and most typically describes a co-occurring drug abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis might help an individual who may not have been able to be helped during the past, end drug or alcohol abuse because they can be correctly diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder may have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or mistreated that may have triggered and led to their substance abuse issues. Establishing the truth that 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 triggered their drug use and how to prevent it later on. Addressing 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 participate in an extensive aftercare program which can include appropriate medical support along with further rehabilitation services. Being identified as having co-occurring disorders doesn't imply the person should be medicated through out their lives either, and in reality many individuals with a dual diagnosis experience much better outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative therapy is utilized.