Dual diagnosis is a situation whereby two independent disorders exist, and most typically describes a co-occurring drug abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis can help an individual who might possibly not have been capable of being helped previously, end drug or alcohol abuse because they can be correctly diagnosed and helped. Their mental health disorder might have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or mistreated which could have triggered and led to their substance abuse issues. Establishing the truth that someone is in fact a dual diagnosis client not merely helps establish a highly effective treatment plan for them, but could also help clients better know what triggered their drug abuse and ways to prevent it in the foreseeable future. Handling dual diagnosis can be a more extensive process than the usual typical drug rehab program, and individuals with a dual diagnosis might need to participate in a substantial aftercare program that might include proper medical support along with continued treatment services. Being identified as having co-occurring disorders doesn't signify the person should be medicated for the remainder of their lives either, and actually many individuals who have a dual diagnosis experience more effective results when treated holistically and when alternative therapy is utilized.