Dual diagnosis is a circumstance in which two independent disorders exist, and most typically denotes a co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis might help someone who may not have been able to be helped previously, finish drug abuse because they can be correctly diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder might have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or mistreated that may have triggered and led to their substance abuse problems. Establishing the fact that someone is certainly a dual diagnosis client not just helps establish an effective treatment plan for them, but may also help clients better understand what led to their drug abuse and how to prevent it later on. Handling dual diagnosis is often a more extensive process than a typical drug rehab program, and individuals with a dual diagnosis may need to take part in a substantial aftercare program that might include appropriate medical support and also continued rehab services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't mean that the person will need to be medicated for the rest of their lives either, and actually many people who have a dual diagnosis experience more effective results when treated holistically and when alternative therapy is utilized.