Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
So, are dreams about estranged family ultimately just “my own psychological issue”?
Yes, that’s correct. The basic interpretation is that this dream is a mirror reflecting your own unresolved emotions and internal growth, rather than what the other person is currently doing. For example, the family member in the dream might symbolize aspects of yourself, like your “strictness” or “kindness.” Taking this opportunity to deeply engage with your own heart is the key to understanding the dream’s message.
I dreamed they contacted me or we reconciled… Can I take this as a sign of getting back together?
It’s wise to consider it unlikely to be a sign of a real-life reconciliation. In dream interpretation, such dreams symbolize “inner peace.” This is a very positive sign that you are letting go of past anger and attachments and are regaining your peace of mind. Rather than rushing into real-world action, first, turn your attention to the joyful changes in your own heart.
They died in my dream. I’m worried something bad is going to happen.
Please don’t worry. In dream interpretation, “death” does not suggest a real death but is a very positive sign symbolizing “closure and rebirth.” This means you have completely overcome the emotional ties to the estranged person and are ready to move on to a new stage in your life. It is by no means an ominous dream.
I only dream about my estranged “father.” Is the meaning different from dreams about my mother or siblings?
Yes, the meaning is quite different. In dream interpretation, the interpretation changes based on what the character symbolizes. A father generally symbolizes “social standing, rules, and authority,” so it’s likely to reflect worries about work or independence. In contrast, a mother symbolizes “love, protection, and emotion,” and siblings symbolize “close relationships or another aspect of yourself,” so different underlying issues are hidden in each.
I understand the dream’s meaning. So, what should I actually do to get over the past?
The most important tip is to shift the focus from “them” to “yourself.” Use this dream as a trigger to think about what you need now (for example, mental rest, a new challenge, etc.) and take action. You can’t change the past, but cherishing your “present” self by applying the dream’s message is the surest step to overcoming the past.