Therapist Reveals Oddly Scary Reason Some People Can’t Fall Asleep Without Background Noise : The Hearty Soul

For many individuals, the act of falling asleep without background noise can feel nearly impossible. Whether it’s the consistent hum of a fan or the gentle drone of a TV show, this nighttime routine may have deeper psychological roots than we realize. Mental health experts have shed light on the fact that the need for noise at bedtime can be a response to trauma or anxiety, making it more than just a simple preference.¹

Why Some Individuals Require Background Noise to Sleep

Background noise can provide comfort for those who struggle to fall asleep in complete silence. Whether it’s white noise, music, or the soft hum of an air conditioner, this auditory stimulus masks the quietness that some find unsettling. While many use it to block out random noises, for some individuals, it’s an emotional necessity. According to a TikTok mental health account, this behavior could be linked to a psychological response to feelings of abandonment. The noise tricks the brain into feeling less alone.

Read More: 8 Reasons For Dark Circles Under the Eyes That Have Nothing to Do With Lack of Sleep

Emotional Suppression and Anxiety

Therapists suggest that the need for background noise might also be connected to the suppression of unwanted emotions. As counselor Juulia Karlstedt explains, “We fill our attentional capacity with stimuli to avoid unpleasant emotions.” Without background noise, individuals may be compelled to confront suppressed thoughts and anxieties that surface in silence. This makes the quiet of night a prime time for anxieties to emerge.

Anxiety Disorders and Sleep

For some individuals, the fear of silence at night may be connected to underlying mental health conditions, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Therapist April Kilduff mentions that for individuals with GAD, nighttime can be particularly challenging due to the absence of distractions, allowing worries to spiral without interruption. The background noise serves as a coping mechanism to keep anxiety in check.²

Trauma and the Fear of Isolation

The aversion to silence may also originate from childhood experiences, particularly trauma or feelings of abandonment. In such instances, the necessity for noise acts as a barrier against feelings of loneliness. Even with a partner present, some individuals still rely on background noise to feel secure. This indicates that the noise serves not only as a distraction from silence but also as a means to combat deeper fears of isolation.

Read More: Phone Explodes Killing Teen As She Sleeps

When to Consider Seeking Help

While the need for noise to sleep is not uncommon, it can become problematic if driven by underlying anxiety or fear. If the prospect of sleeping in silence triggers overwhelming anxiety, it may be time to seek guidance from a therapist. Treatment approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) can assist individuals in gradually becoming comfortable with silence by addressing the root causes of their fears.

The Significance of Background Noise

While many individuals use background noise simply to improve their sleep quality, for others, it’s a psychological necessity linked to anxiety, trauma, or emotional suppression. Understanding the reasons behind your need for noise to fall asleep could be the initial step in addressing any underlying mental health issues.

Read More: Top Sheets Are Annoying. Take Them Off and Enjoy Your Sleep Better