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.