Hearing voices when one's eyes are closed could be attributed to several factors, ranging from normal sensory perceptions to potential medical or psychological conditions. Here are some possible causes:
Hypnagogic and hypnopompic hallucinations: These are hallucinations that can occur when falling asleep (hypnagogic) or waking up (hypnopompic). They are often associated with the transition between wakefulness and sleep and can involve hearing voices or other sounds.
Auditory hallucinations: Auditory hallucinations can happen independently of visual input. They involve perceiving sounds, including voices, when there is no external auditory stimulus present. These hallucinations can be associated with various conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or other psychotic disorders.
Tinnitus: Tinnitus is a perception of sound in the absence of an external source. People with tinnitus may hear ringing, buzzing, or other noises, including voices in some cases. Tinnitus can occur with eyes open or closed.
Sensory deprivation: When a person is in a situation of sensory deprivation, such as being in a dark and quiet room for an extended period, their brain may start generating sensory experiences to compensate for the lack of external stimuli. This could lead to auditory hallucinations, including voices.
Sleep disorders: Certain sleep disorders like sleep apnea or narcolepsy can lead to disrupted sleep patterns and may contribute to experiencing hallucinations, including auditory ones, upon waking or falling asleep.
Stress and anxiety: Intense stress and anxiety can cause sensory disturbances, including auditory hallucinations, as a result of the body's physiological response to stress.
Substance use: Some drugs or medications can cause hallucinations, including auditory ones.
It is important to note that hearing voices can be a symptom of an underlying medical or psychological condition, especially if it is recurrent or interfering with daily life. If you or someone you know experiences this phenomenon frequently or with distress, it is essential to seek professional medical and psychological evaluation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment, if necessary. A qualified healthcare provider can conduct a thorough assessment to identify any potential underlying issues and provide appropriate support and intervention.