The phenomenon you're describing, hearing a sound like someone saying your name in your head, is known as "inner speech" or "auditory hallucination." It is a subjective experience and can have various causes, including:
Subvocalization: Subvocalization is the silent articulation of words or sounds in one's mind. When you think or read silently, your brain may generate internal speech that resembles hearing your own voice saying words, including your name. This is a common experience for many people and is considered a normal aspect of cognition.
Hypnagogic/Hypnopompic Hallucinations: These hallucinations occur during the transitional states between wakefulness and sleep, either as you're falling asleep (hypnagogic) or waking up (hypnopompic). During these states, your brain may produce auditory imagery or brief hallucinations, including hearing sounds like voices or your name being called.
Hyperactivity or Overexcitation of the Auditory Cortex: Sometimes, excessive neural activity in the auditory cortex can lead to the perception of sounds that aren't present externally. This can result in auditory hallucinations, including hearing voices or hearing one's name being spoken.
Psychological Factors: In some cases, hearing sounds like someone saying your name can be associated with psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, fatigue, or heightened emotional states. These factors can influence the way your brain processes information and may contribute to auditory experiences that seem to be generated internally.
It's worth noting that occasional instances of hearing your name or other sounds in your head are typically not a cause for concern. However, if you experience frequent or distressing auditory hallucinations, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional or mental health provider for further evaluation and guidance.