HealthHealthFamily issues issues can be a difficult challenge for one’s career, particularly if the illnesses are chronic. How you deal with these problems depends upon their type (e.g., acute physical, chronic physical, mental illness, emotional issues, addiction, disabilities). Most acute physical health problems are unanticipated and can often be accommodated by routine sick leave or a medical leave of absence. Chronic health problems, including mental and emotional health issues as well as addictionAddiction and disabilities, may require varying degrees of accommodation and longer leaves of absence. In some instances, reduction of percent effort may be required to deal with chronic illness. A variety of family problems can also arise during your career, including changes in marital or relationship status, illness or disability of a loved one, financial stress, pregnancy, adoption, and the need for childcare or eldercare. You need to know your school and institutional policies on leaves related to illness and family responsibilities. This will allow you to develop plans for addressing the challenge, including how to catch up with your professional activities. Fortunately, the availability of technology permitting remote access allows many to remain engaged while away.