Dual diagnosis is a situation in which two independent disorders are present, and most typically describes a co-occurring drug abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis will help a person that might not have been able to be helped previously, finish drug abuse because they can be correctly diagnosed and helped. Their mental health disorder might have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or treated incorrectly which could have triggered and resulted in their drug abuse problems. Establishing the fact that someone is in fact a dual diagnosis client not only helps establish an efficient course of treatment for them, but may also help clients better understand what led to their substance abuse and the way to prevent it down the road. Addressing dual diagnosis is often a more extensive process than a typical drug rehab program, and individuals with a dual diagnosis might be required to take part in an extensive aftercare program which can include proper medical support and also further treatment services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't signify the individual must be medicated through out their lives either, and actually many people with a dual diagnosis experience much better outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative treatment methods are utilized.