There may be an underlying psychological reason why certain individuals feel the need to have background noise while trying to sleep.
Sleep is something we all engage in daily, but for many, achieving restful sleep can be challenging. While some people seem to drift off easily, others struggle to feel rested.
According to one NHS doctor, even if you think you’re doing everything right, you might still wake up feeling tired. Factors such as alcohol consumption, irregular sleep patterns, or even too much sleep can all affect how refreshed you feel in the morning.
Many individuals who have difficulty sleeping turn to background noise as a coping mechanism. Whether it’s the quiet hum of a fan, the low volume of a television, soothing music, or white noise, these sounds can make a significant difference for those who use them. However, those who rely on background noise may not fully understand the psychological reasons behind it.
A mental health account on TikTok, @DCLAnxiety, shared insights from a therapist, explaining that needing background noise to sleep could be linked to deeper emotional issues. Specifically, it can be a trauma response associated with feelings of abandonment. The noise creates a comforting illusion that you’re not alone, making it easier for the brain to relax.
One user agreed with the therapist’s explanation, commenting, “I feel lonely even though my husband sleeps next to me.”
Counselor Juulia Karlstedt, who specializes in anxiety and perfectionism, offered a similar perspective in an interview with HuffPost. She explained that background noise might serve as a way to avoid confronting uncomfortable emotions. By filling the mind with distractions, it leaves no room for the thoughts or feelings we may be trying to suppress.
Although not everyone shares the same experiences, some may rely on background noise for other reasons. One person commented, “As someone with abandonment issues, I hate noise while sleeping because it triggers paranoia from past trauma.” Others have suggested they simply grew up in noisy environments or enjoy the comfort of sound.
Karlstedt advises that if you’re using background noise to avoid unresolved feelings, it may be helpful to confront these thoughts. Ignoring them can potentially increase the anxiety they’re rooted in.
