This year has unfortunately brought its fair share of challenges for us all. Hopefully it has also presented you with opportunities for healing, reflection, and growth. While we adjust to changes in our social routines and embrace virtual connections, consider this: How does donning a mask or social distancing impact our in-person conversations?

Wearing masks and/or standing six feet apart presents new communication challenges, particularly for people who have difficulty speaking or hearing. Masks unfortunately muffle sound, which makes it harder for a listener to hear and understand speech. They also prevent us from reading lips and watching facial expressions (which we use when listening to someone speak). Maintaining social distancing, even without a mask, can make it difficult to interpret subtle gestures, and a person’s vocal volume may sound quieter the further away they stand. All of this is exacerbated when you add in competing noise, visual distractions, and movement in the background.

Communication breakdowns may be more frequent and more frustrating! Luckily, there are strategies we can use to communicate more effectively in this new normal. And, because communication involves both a speaker and a listener, both parties may benefit from using these strategies!