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 can help someone that might possibly not have been able to be helped in the past, put an end to drug or alcohol abuse because they can be correctly diagnosed and helped. Their mental health disorder may have been misdiagnosed, not diagnosed at all, or mistreated which may have triggered and resulted in their substance abuse issues. Establishing the reality that someone is in fact a dual diagnosis client not merely helps establish an effective treatment plan for them, but could also help clients better understand what caused their drug abuse and the way to prevent it later on. Handling dual diagnosis may be a more extensive process compared to a typical drug rehab program, and folks who have a dual diagnosis might be required to participate in a substantial aftercare program which can include appropriate medical support and also further treatment services. Being identified as having co-occurring disorders doesn't signify the individual should be medicated for the remainder of their lives either, and actually lots of people who have a dual diagnosis experience more effective results when treated holistically and when alternative treatment solutions are utilized.