Healing from mental health and substance use disorder (SUD) challenges is far more than clinical treatment or medication. It is a journey toward restoring balance, purpose, and hope in an individual’s life. While medical interventions such as therapy and pharmacology are essential, effective recovery must also engage psychological, spiritual, cultural, and community dimensions.

In community work, mental health, education, and social services, we often hear terms like culturally grounded and culturally responsive. While they sound similar, they are not interchangeable. Understanding the difference is essential if we want to build programs that are authentic, respectful, and effective for the people we serve.