Dual diagnosis can be a situation whereby two independent disorders are present, and most often 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 during the past, finish drug abuse because they can be properly diagnosed and helped. 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 reality that someone is in fact a dual diagnosis client not merely helps establish an effective treatment course for them, but may also help clients better know what triggered their drug use and the way to prevent it down the road. Addressing dual diagnosis is often a more extensive process when compared to a typical drug rehab program, and individuals with a dual diagnosis might be required to participate in a substantial aftercare program which may include proper medical support along with further rehab services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't imply the person should be medicated for the remainder of their lives either, and in reality lots of people who have a dual diagnosis experience much better results when treated holistically and when alternative treatment methods are employed.