Dual diagnosis is a situation whereby two independent disorders exist, and most typically describes a co-occurring drug abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis can help someone that may possibly not have been able to be helped during the past, stop substance abuse because they can be properly diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder may have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or mistreated which may have triggered and led to their drug or alcohol use problems. Establishing the fact someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not simply helps establish an effective treatment course for them, but may also help clients better determine what led to their substance abuse and how to prevent it in the foreseeable future. Addressing dual diagnosis is often a more extensive process compared to a typical drug rehab program, and individuals with a dual diagnosis might need to take part in an extensive aftercare program which may include proper medical support along with continued treatment services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't signify the person should be medicated for the remainder of their lives either, and actually lots of people with a dual diagnosis experience more effective outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative treatment methods are utilized.