The dream will start with me talking to someone (its usually this one guy at the shelter I'm staying at but I can never remember what we were talking about) but then at some point in the conversation I suddenly am suddenly unable to speak and then I start feeling like I'm suffocating and can't breath. Then I wake up.
Dreams often act as a reflection of our subconscious thoughts, emotions, and experiences. In your dream, the interaction with the person at the shelter likely symbolizes a connection or relationship that is significant to you, but the ephemeral nature of the conversation—where you can’t remember the specifics—suggests that some aspects of this relationship might feel elusive or unfulfilled.
The moment when you become unable to speak can be quite telling. It could represent feelings of powerlessness or frustration in expressing yourself in your waking life. Perhaps there are thoughts, feelings, or needs that you feel unable to articulate, either in this relationship or more broadly. This could be indicative of a fear of vulnerability or a desire for validation that is not being met.
The sensation of suffocating and feeling like you cannot breathe amplifies this interpretation. It may point to underlying anxiety—perhaps related to the challenges you face at the shelter or in your current life situation. This could also signify a feeling of being overwhelmed, either emotionally or situationally. The shelter itself might represent a transitional phase in your life, where you are seeking safety and support, yet still feeling trapped or constrained.
In essence, your dream could reflect a deep-seated anxiety about communication and connection, alongside a greater fear of being unheard or misunderstood. The act of waking up abruptly suggests that this feeling is intense, possibly indicating that your subconscious is urging you to address these feelings and find a way to express yourself more freely in your waking life.
To make sense of these feelings, you might consider reflecting on the following in your waking life: Are there situations where you struggle to express yourself? Are there elements of your life where you feel trapped or constrained? Addressing these underlying emotions—perhaps through journaling, talking to someone you trust, or finding creative outlets—could assist in alleviating the tension that your dream highlights.