Dual diagnosis is a situation whereby two independent disorders exist, and most typically describes a co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis might help an individual who might possibly not have been able to be helped before, put an end to drug or alcohol abuse because they can be correctly diagnosed and helped. Their mental health disorder could have been misdiagnosed, not diagnosed at all, or mistreated which could have triggered and led to their substance abuse problems. Establishing the truth that someone is in fact a dual diagnosis client not only helps establish a highly effective course of treatment for them, but can also help clients better know what triggered their drug abuse and how to prevent it in the future. Addressing dual diagnosis might be a more extensive process than a typical drug rehab program, and individuals who have a dual diagnosis might need to participate in a substantial aftercare program which may include appropriate medical support as well as further rehabilitation services. Being identified as having co-occurring disorders doesn't mean that the person will have to be medicated for the rest of their lives either, and in reality many individuals who have a dual diagnosis experience more effective outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative treatment solutions are utilized.