/ˈstɔːri ˈɑːftəmaθ/: The long-lasting effects of a story that create either uncertainty or a sense of vulnerability. This can occur from a story that triggers deep-seated fears, causing one’s survival instincts to kick in.
When a story doesn’t end properly or is left outstanding with an element of the unknown, which in this case translates into immense fear, I stay waiting for a resolution. My mind instinctively thinks on and on in distaste, causing unusual levels of biochemical and neurochemical activity from over-scanning every aspect of life. As a result, I continuously try to find order among the chaos no matter how long it takes, because that is the demand of my disrupted system taking a story far too seriously. In a worst-case scenario, this can lead to years of frustration and anxiety, affecting my life in a very negative way.
Fortunately, Story Aftermath isn’t always negative in nature and can have a long-lasting positive effect, providing years of comfort from a well-told story that instils hope and strength.
Need more insight? Delve deeper by reading Hidden Frustrations Expressed Physically.