Since stress is a function of Force per Area an increase in force will increase stress and vice versa. Since stress is inversely proportional to area an increase in area will create a decrease in stress and an decrease in area will produce an increase in stress. So look for the increase in force or the decrease in area in the given situation (even figuratively speaking).

Marijuana can actually increase stress as well.

Yes, its true up to some extend because some people have the habit of over eating when they are in stress or anger, so this habit can increase their weight and also the cholesterol figures.

sometime increased HCl secretion with acute stress but chronic stress causes HCl production to decrease

Yes, stress can produce excess cortisol. cmf3225