Best of: Why are so many young people struggling to find hope—and how can we help?

Note: This episode was originally published on November 19, 2025 and was one of our most popular conversations over the last 12 months. We&#39;re currently taking a summer break for the month of July, but we will be back with new episodes starting on August 5th.In this episode of Faith &amp; Clarity, host Mark Turman welcomes Tim Altman, President and CEO of TheHopeLine, for a heartfelt and timely conversation about the growing need for hope among today’s young people—especially during the holiday season.Tim shares how TheHopeLine, a 24/7 online ministry, is meeting students and young adults right where they are—offering free, compassionate support through live chat to those struggling with loneliness, anxiety, and crisis. He and Mark talk about the realities facing this generation, from the isolating effects of social media to the rise in mental health challenges that leave many searching for purpose and belonging.Drawing from TheHopeLine’s LEAP model—Listen, Encourage, Advise, and Plan/Pray—Tim explains how hope coaches are trained to provide both practical guidance and spiritual care in real time. He also offers insight into how parents can best love and support their teens, and what families can do to bring light into what can be a difficult season for many.Together, Mark and Tim reflect on the deep spiritual hunger behind the headlines and the remarkable ways God is working through everyday conversations of care and faith. It’s a reminder that hope is not abstract—it’s alive, active, and available in Christ, even in our darkest moments.Topics(0:00) Introduction (3:26) Defining hope today (7:31) Why hope is fading (10:31) HopeLine mission origins (13:14) From radio to web (16:56) Live chat and LEAP (17:58) Crisis story and identity (24:42) HopeLine global reach (27:10) Crises beyond suicide (30:39) Recruiting hope coaches (37:45) Website resources support (42:32) ConclusionResourcesTheHopeLineFacebook: TheHopeLineTheHopeLine (@thehopeline) • Instagram photos and videosTheHopeLine (@thehopeline) / Posts / XTikTok: TheHopeLine.com Tim Altman on LinkedInWhat does the Bible say about suicide? • Denison ForumHaving suicidal thoughts? Call or text 988Why are teens sadder, lonelier, and more depressed than ever before?To stop suicide every 40 seconds: Jacob Coyne with StayHere.liveHow to help prevent suicide and aiding survivors: A conversation with John Mark CatonHow to navigate suicide, self-harm, depression, and emotions with preteens and teens: A conversation with Jeff and Terra MattsonHow can Christians navigate anxiety and negative thoughts?<a href="https://www.denisonforum.org/podcasts/faith-and-clarity/how-can-understanding-the-mind-body-spiri