The prevalence of young people with at least one parent from a migrant background is increasing. These families deal with the complexities of navigating between cultures. This challenges patients and mental health workers in their aim to find a culturally sensitive approach. In this article we aim to investigate how different rates of cultural adaptation between generations within the same family, often referred to as the ‘acculturation gap’,’ impact the mental well-being of young individuals and the overall family functioning. Through a concise narrative literature review and case report, we elaborate the concept of cultural adaptation. We explore whether an acculturation gap poses a risk for patients’ mental health and identify potential mediating factors. Our findings emphasize the importance of a sensitive approach, wherein the practitioner assists the young individual and his/her family in finding a balance between the host and the heritage culture.