Youโre having problems at work or at home. Youโre stressed, and itโs beginning to show, in more ways than one. Youโve noticed a bulge around your mid-section that wasnโt there before. Where are these extra pounds coming from? Stress could be one of the culprits. It plays a role in weight gain. While it can make you have less of an appetite at first, long-term “chronic” stress actually boosts your hunger.