What might you see? Having a hard time understanding common nonverbal cues (for example, facial expressions, hand gestures, etc.) Standing too close or too far from people in a conversation Body language that doesn’t “match” what is being said Facial expressions that don’t “match” what is being said Poor eye contact with the person talking or listening Staring at others during conversation How can you help? Politely ask the service member or veteran to stand closer or further away during a conversation. Explain that the behavior is making you feel uncomfortable. Tell the service member or veteran you are confused by the difference in body language and spoken message. Briefly explain what you saw and heard. Ask them to stop any distracting motions. Work with the healthcare team to practice appropriate behavior in therapy and at home. This will help decrease behavior that causes problems. Talk to the service member or veteran about how to act in certain situations before those situations occur. Give feedback on the right amount of eye contact to keep with another person. Decide on a signal to let the service member or veteran know if their nonverbal communication is inappropriate. Praise all improvements in verbal and nonverbal communication skills.