Dual diagnosis can be a circumstance in which two independent disorders exist, and most often 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 during the past, put an end to substance abuse because they can be accurately diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder may have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or treated incorrectly which may have triggered and resulted in their drug or alcohol use problems. Establishing the fact someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not only helps establish a highly effective course of treatment for them, but can also help clients better know what caused their drug use and ways to prevent it later on. Handling dual diagnosis is often a more extensive process when compared to a typical drug rehab program, and folks with a dual diagnosis might be required to take part in an extensive aftercare program which may include appropriate medical support along with further rehab services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't imply that the person will need to be medicated for the rest of their lives either, and in reality many individuals with a dual diagnosis experience much better outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative treatment methods are employed.