"最危险的人是那个觉得自己一无是处的人"

Feeling worthless can be detrimental to anyone's mental health, but when a person truly believes they have no value, they may become volatile and unpredictable. This deep-seated sense of worthlessness can drive someone to make destructive choices, either against themselves or others. If you think about it, the person who has nothing to lose might act recklessly because they don’t see any point in restraint. Imagine having a friend who’s just lost their job, their relationship is in shambles, and they’re estranged from their family. If this person starts to believe that they don’t matter, that they’re a burden, they might spiral into behaviors that are harmful.

To understand why someone might feel this way, let's look at historical contexts. During the Great Depression, many people lost everything: jobs, homes, their life savings. Many men at that time felt like failures because they couldn't provide for their families. This wasn’t just about losing material possessions; it was about losing their sense of purpose and identity. Some of them, feeling completely worthless, turned to desperate measures — including crime or, tragically, taking their own lives.

Think of a modern-day example: a veteran returning from combat. They might struggle with PTSD, find it hard to reintegrate into civilian life, and face challenges in finding employment. Let's say this person starts to believe that their skills are only relevant in a war zone, and they can’t connect with others who haven’t shared their experiences. This growing sense of isolation and worthlessness could make them feel like a danger to themselves and society. It’s not hard to imagine how this could lead to problems like substance abuse or even violent outbursts.

So, how can we apply this understanding in a practical way? One piece of advice is to always be mindful of the signs of worthlessness in those around us. If someone you know seems to be withdrawing, expressing hopelessness, or talking about feeling like a burden, it’s crucial to reach out. Encourage them to seek professional help if needed, and make sure they know they’re valued. Sometimes, just knowing that someone cares can make a big difference.

Let's bring this home with a relatable story. Imagine a guy named Dave. Dave's always been the life of the party, but lately, he's been missing from social gatherings. When you do see him, he's not his usual self. He’s quit his job, broke up with his partner, and when he talks, it’s mostly self-deprecating humor. You might think he’s just going through a rough patch, but something deeper is going on. Dave feels worthless. The jokes are his way of masking a painful reality.

One day, you decide to invite him out for coffee. During your conversation, you tell him how much his friendship means to you, how his presence uplifts everyone in the group. You listen to his struggles without judgment and suggest he speaks to a counselor. A week later, he texts you, saying he’s made an appointment and thanks you for being there. This small act of kindness, of showing him that he matters, could be the turning point he needs.

In essence, never underestimate the power of making someone feel valued. It can be a lifeline for a person teetering on the edge. So next time you notice someone slipping into that dangerous mindset, act. Show them they matter. You could be making a world of difference.