It’s hard, especially during sensory overload episodes, but you have to somehow communicate outwardly that you need to leave the room or space that you’re in at the time. If you’re in school or work, make a sign that you can easily do to signal how you feel to a teacher or manager or other. Maybe three fingers up or something like that..?

usually i take myself to an area that’s less populated and just let it ride out, somewhere like the bathroom or an empty classroom

I have a tablet with an app on it that has pre-programmed buttons (set by me when I can words are working), and communicate that I need to leave through it. Sometimes I simply get overwhelmed to the point that I can't do that though, in which case I'd recommend, if possible, throwing up a bathroom sign and going outside for a minute. Personally I have an aid that usually notices and brings me outside so I'm not sure how well that second one will do, though.

I sometimes slip a stuffed animal or fidget in my bag when my service dog can’t come and just quietly leave for a few minutes to take a break. I am also in college so we can just come and go as we feel is necessary most of the time. Sending love