I can say first hand that stress can certainly aggravate GERD or gastritis. You eat differently when you are stressed. More soda or coffee, perhaps, or more chocolate or snack foods. All these things are acidic based, meaning they make your system more acidic than alkaline. (just search acidic and alkaline foods, there are lists out there ). Soda is the worst, diet or regular. Try to eat slowly ( I know, easier said than done )... and get a good digestive enzyme caplet at an herbal pharmacy. One with all the enzymes,to help you digest better. Take at least one every time you eat anything, for a couple of months, and you'll see a big difference with those two changes. I was stuck on a heavy duty RX acid reducer for 7 years, and I was finally able to get off of it by doing what I just suggested. Don't take those darned things unless you really have tried everything else, the side effects are terrible. Hope you feel better!