Eryn, your dream of being on an old, worn-out yellow mattress in the middle of a lake or river is quite evocative. The yellow mattress itself could symbolize something from your past that feels outdated or tired, possibly an aspect of your life or a relationship that no longer provides comfort or support. The fact that it's worn-out might suggest feelings of neglect or a sense of weariness in dealing with ongoing issues.
The presence of the mattress in a body of water like a lake or river is particularly interesting. Water often symbolizes emotions and the unconscious mind in dream interpretation. A lake or river, in this context, can represent the flow of your emotional state or the journey of your subconscious thoughts. Being in the middle of it could indicate a feeling of being surrounded or overwhelmed by your emotions, yet also the potential for deep introspection and understanding.
The old, worn-out mattress could also be a metaphor for your current coping mechanisms or strategies, which may feel inadequate or insufficient in addressing your emotional needs. This might be especially relevant considering your experiences with stress, anxiety, and past traumatic events. The color yellow typically symbolizes caution, fear, or, in some cases, hope and clarity. The duality of this color can reflect your inner conflict between feeling apprehensive and seeking a brighter, more hopeful future.
The setting of a lake or river also suggests a sense of isolation or being adrift.