Dual diagnosis is a situation whereby two independent disorders are present, and most typically describes a co-occurring drug abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis might help someone that may possibly not have been able to be helped previously, end substance abuse by being properly diagnosed and treated. Their mental health disorder could have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or mistreated which may have triggered and led to their substance abuse problems. Establishing the truth that someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not only helps establish a highly effective treatment plan for them, but will also help clients better understand what caused their drug use and the way to prevent it later on. Addressing dual diagnosis might be a more extensive process than a typical drug rehab program, and individuals with a dual diagnosis may need to participate in an extensive aftercare program which may include proper medical support and also further treatment services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't imply the person will need to be medicated for the rest of their lives either, and in fact many people who have a dual diagnosis experience more effective outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative therapy is utilized.