Starting Conversation

What might you see?

• Unable to start, or slow to start, conversations
• Long pauses
• Problems explaining what he or she means
• Not responding to another’s questions or comments in a timely manner

How can you help?

• Help start a conversation by asking a leading question such as, "What do you think about this?"
• Encourage the service member or veteran to talk about familiar topics or topics of interest.
• Ask open-ended questions (for example, questions that cannot be answered with a "yes" or "no") such as, "Tell me more about your day."
• Give your full attention when your family member is talking.
• Give the service member or veteran time to organize their thoughts.
• Use redirection, if necessary (for example, "So what do you think about that?").
• Reinforce all efforts to start a conversation. Show that you value what they have to contribute to conversations.