Dual diagnosis can be a circumstance in which two independent disorders exist, and most typically describes a co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis might help someone who might possibly not have been able to be helped before, put an end to drug abuse because they can be correctly diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder might have been misdiagnosed, not diagnosed at all, or mistreated which may 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 efficient treatment plan for them, but could also help clients better determine what led to their drug abuse and how to prevent it down the road. Addressing dual diagnosis can be a more extensive process than the usual typical drug rehab program, and folks who have a dual diagnosis may need to participate in a substantial aftercare program which may include proper medical support as well as further rehabilitation services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't mean that the person will need to be medicated for the remainder of their lives either, and in fact lots of people with a dual diagnosis experience more effective results when treated holistically and when alternative therapy is utilized.