Dual diagnosis can be a situation whereby two independent disorders exist, and most typically describes a co-occurring drug or alcohol use and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis may help an individual who may possibly not have been able to be helped during the past, 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 triggered and led to their substance abuse problems. Establishing the fact that someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not only helps establish an effective treatment plan for them, but can also help clients better understand what led to their drug use and the way to prevent it down the road. Addressing dual diagnosis can be a more extensive process when compared to a typical drug rehab program, and individuals who have a dual diagnosis might be required to take part in an extensive aftercare program that might include appropriate medical support in addition to further treatment services. Being identified as having co-occurring disorders doesn't mean that the individual will need to be medicated for the rest of their lives either, and actually a lot of people with a dual diagnosis experience more effective outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative treatment methods are utilized.