Dual diagnosis can be a situation in which two independent disorders are present, and most often describes a co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis can help an individual who might possibly not have been capable of being helped in the past, put an end to drug or alcohol abuse by being accurately diagnosed and helped. Their mental health disorder may have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or treated incorrectly which could have triggered and resulted in their substance abuse problems. 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 substance abuse and the way to prevent it later on. Handling dual diagnosis is often a more extensive process when compared to a typical drug rehab program, and folks who have a dual diagnosis might be required to participate in an extensive aftercare program which may include proper medical support in addition to continued rehab services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't imply that the person will have to be medicated for the rest of their lives either, and actually many people who have a dual diagnosis experience far better outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative treatment solutions are employed.