In an interview with Alternative Press, vocalist Austin Carlile said:

Shayley [Bourget, bassist/clean vocalist] really outdid himself on this one; he came up with the entire song, and used it as a blank page to really spill a lot. The message conveyed is something that we in the band all have experienced and understand, so this track making the album had to happen. It’s titled “When You Can’t Sleep at Night” because even as sad as it may sound, it’s full of compassion, reassurance and love—a lullaby of sorts. The line, “Here in this world, I’m awaked with mistakes but it’s love that keeps fueling me” says so much. Followed by, “I know I’m not that perfect, but you stay awhile baby, then you will see.” Shay is really explaining that he knows things may not be the best—things may be shaky or rough, but love can overcome that. And the bond between two people can overcome anything.

You have something golden; you hold onto it. You find something special, live in it. Time should never be an issue. You miss that someone so much it hurts? Then listen to this song when you can’t sleep at night."