Dual diagnosis can be a situation whereby two independent disorders exist, and most typically describes a co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis can help a person that may possibly not have been able to be helped during the past, end drug abuse because they can be correctly diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder might have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or treated incorrectly which could have triggered and led to their drug abuse issues. Establishing the fact that someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not just helps establish a highly effective treatment course for them, but could also help clients better understand what caused their substance abuse and how to prevent it down the road. Addressing dual diagnosis may be a more extensive process when compared to a typical drug rehab program, and people with a dual diagnosis might need to take part in a substantial aftercare program which can include proper medical support along with further treatment services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't imply the person will have to be medicated through out their lives either, and actually a lot of people who have a dual diagnosis experience more effective outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative treatment methods are utilized.