Dual diagnosis is a situation whereby two independent disorders are present, and most often describes a co-occurring drug or alcohol use and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis will help an individual who may possibly not have been capable of being helped previously, finish drug or alcohol abuse by being properly diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder may have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or treated incorrectly which could have prompted and led to their drug abuse issues. Establishing the fact that someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not just helps establish an effective course of treatment for them, but can also help clients better understand what caused their drug use and how to prevent it down the road. Handling dual diagnosis is often a more extensive process than the usual typical drug rehab program, and individuals who have a dual diagnosis might be required to participate in an extensive aftercare program which might include proper medical support as well as continued rehab services. Being identified as having co-occurring disorders doesn't imply the person will need to be medicated for the remainder of their lives either, and actually many people with a dual diagnosis experience more effective outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative treatment solutions are utilized.