Dual diagnosis can be a situation whereby two independent disorders are present, and most often describes a co-occurring drug abuse and mental health disorder. A dual diagnosis will help someone that might not have been capable of being helped previously, end drug or alcohol abuse because they can be correctly diagnosed and helped. Their mental health disorder may have been misdiagnosed, undiagnosed, or treated incorrectly that may have triggered and led to their drug abuse problems. Establishing the fact someone is actually a dual diagnosis client not simply helps establish an effective treatment plan for them, but can also help clients better understand what caused their substance abuse and how to prevent it in the foreseeable future. Handling dual diagnosis is often a more extensive process when compared to a typical drug rehab program, and people with a dual diagnosis might be required to participate in a substantial aftercare program that might include appropriate medical support in addition to continued rehab services. Being diagnosed with co-occurring disorders doesn't imply the person will have to be medicated for the remainder of their lives either, and actually many individuals who have a dual diagnosis experience much better outcomes when treated holistically and when alternative therapy is employed.