ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with the introduction of several common medical conditions that a client may present, and while a new client may not present any of these at the onset of receiving services, any of these conditions can develop over time. These conditions are in no particular order, and the information provided is basic in nature but comprehensive enough to allow for initiating a dialogue about personal medical and behavioral practices and beliefs of a client. Stress itself is not a medical condition. However, stress is one of the dominating factors that can promote the development of what are known as lifestyle diseases. While various population groups have higher or lower percentages of obesity, the condition is at pandemic proportions and has many associated medical conditions that can affect an individual's ability to exercise safely. Overweight clients may not yet be diagnosed with any of the associated chronic medical conditions.
