The Titus family started Thumbs Up Foundation after their youngest son Braden suddenly and tragically died by suicide in 2015. He was 31. Braden’s suicide was a heartbreaking eye-opener to many. He struggled briefly with depression prior to his suicide and was unable to access crucial mental health care in the weeks leading up to his death. Braden’s suicide highlighted gaps within the fragmented framework of our current systems.
Advocating Positive Change for Mental Health
To improve overall and individual health and well-being by increasing knowledge, understanding and awareness about mental health through the voice of lived and living experience
1 in 5 Albertans has a mental health challenge!
Today, there is greater focus on acute treatment than on prevention
Services are fragmented, the system is complex and difficult to navigate
There continue to many barriers to entry for services: financial, logistical, stigma, etc.
We bring the voice of lived and living experience as valuable guiding principles
Through TUF’s connections with individuals and their families, their stories help us to understand and identify the gaps in the current system
We then use this information to guide our work on increasing awareness, knowledge and understanding. We look for projects that simplify and round out healing journeys and that promote systemic change.
Thumbs Up is a CRA charitable organization: 79819 7273 RR0001