Hearing family and friends call your name or nicknames when you are alone could be attributed to a few different factors, some of which are psychological in nature. Here are some possible explanations:
Auditory Hallucinations: Auditory hallucinations can occur in some mental health conditions or sleep-related disorders. They involve perceiving sounds or voices that aren't actually present. Stress, anxiety, or other mental health issues may contribute to such experiences.
Confirmation Bias: Your brain may be highly attuned to recognizing your name or nicknames, leading to a form of confirmation bias. When you are alone and in a relaxed state, you might be more sensitive to hearing familiar sounds, and your brain may interpret other sounds as calling your name or nickname.
Sensory Adaptation: When you are frequently around certain people, your brain can become accustomed to hearing their voices. Even when you are alone, your brain might still recall and replay those familiar voices, making it feel like you are hearing them again.
Vivid Memories: Sometimes, vivid memories of interactions with family and friends can feel so real that you may have a sense of hearing their voices even when they are not physically present.
Hyper-Vigilance: If you are feeling lonely or longing for company, your brain might be in a state of heightened vigilance, expecting to hear familiar voices, and this could lead to an increased sensitivity to sounds.
Subconscious Association: Certain sounds in your environment might be similar to your name or nicknames, and your subconscious mind might associate them, leading to the feeling of hearing your name being called.
If you find these experiences distressing or they are impacting your daily life, it's important to discuss them with a qualified healthcare professional or mental health specialist. They can help you explore the underlying reasons and provide appropriate support or interventions if needed. They can also rule out any potential medical or psychological conditions that might be contributing to these experiences. Remember that seeking professional help is a proactive step toward understanding and addressing the issue.