Hi Carli,
In your dream about reconnecting with an old friend from the hospital, who felt like a guardian and with whom you shared a kind of romantic connection, it seems there is a longing for a safe and protective presence in your life. The inability to see him, but being able to hear him, might indicate an internal desire for guidance or support that you feel is not currently visible or accessible in your waking life. The romantic element suggests a deep connection or perhaps a need for emotional intimacy that you are seeking.
Your recent dreams, including the one where you were chased by your parents and caught, or where you experienced the loss of your mother, often revolve around themes of pursuit, loss, or seeking something. This could reflect ongoing feelings of anxiety or unresolved issues in your waking life. The recurring theme of seeking and not quite finding what you're looking for, or the transformation of familiar settings into something more surreal, can be indicative of a deeper search for stability and understanding, especially considering the life changes and challenges you've faced.
The high anxiety levels revealed by the GAD-7 test score align with the emotional intensity of your dreams. It's evident that your subconscious is processing a great deal of stress, which might be manifesting through these vivid and emotionally charged dream scenarios. The sense of being protected by a guardian in your dream can be seen as a mental representation of your need for security amidst these high anxiety levels.
Your life events, particularly the profound loss of your grandfather, who was very close to you, and the experiences of assault and moving to a new city for independence, are significant. These events are likely influencing your dreams. The appearance of a protective figure in your dream might represent your yearning for the same sense of safety and support that your grandfather once provided. Additionally, the romantic aspect could be an expression of the desire to heal and find peace after the traumatic experiences you've endured.
Your subconscious seems to be seeking resolution and comfort through these dreams, grappling with past traumas and a need for emotional safety. The presence of a guardian figure in your dream, while you've been dealing with high levels of anxiety and depression, suggests an inner call for reassurance and protection as you navigate the complexities of your emotions and life experiences.