Dual diagnosis is a circumstance in which two independent disorders exist, and most typically describes a co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis will help an individual who may not have been able to be helped previously, stop drug or alcohol abuse by being accurately diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder may have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or mistreated that could have prompted and led to their drug or alcohol use issues. Establishing the fact that someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not simply helps establish an efficient treatment plan for them, but will also help clients better determine what caused their substance abuse and the way to prevent it down the road. Addressing dual diagnosis is often a more extensive process compared to a typical drug rehab program, and individuals with a dual diagnosis might be required to participate in an extensive aftercare program which can include appropriate medical support and also further treatment services. Being identified as having co-occurring disorders doesn't imply the individual must be medicated for the remainder of their lives either, and actually many people who have a dual diagnosis experience more effective outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative treatment methods are employed.