[Den]

Some people are just sensitive to the other realms. I am too, and I've noticed that there's a lot of things that can make for strange dreams, including the weather outside. Weather can affect the energies of the physical realm, and can also mess with the other realms, because of the energy changes storms bring. Strange dreams can also be a way for the spirit realm to get a message across, because sometimes, the waking mind can be too active for the message to be heard or seen.

Maybe try writing down the dreams if you're able to remember them when you wake up, and look online to see if there's any potential meanings to the aspects of the dreams?

As for missing your friends, if it helps bring about healing, then naming the doll after your friends isn't a bad thing. It might also help to do like Law suggested with making something to be released. I'd also suggest doing something for Day of the Dead, when the veil between the realms is thinnest, and it's easier for the spirits of loved ones to visit.