@colleenyoung I can speak to my experience, and realize that others may have very different reactions.

Sensory overload comes in the form of auditory stimulation, whether from music, voices, children's high voices. I get jittery [my hearing is very sensitive] and want to shut down/go hide in a quiet area. Likewise visual overload can be presented in too much activity, blinking/changing lights, which can make me simply shut down and be almost catatonic. For me, my senses of smell, sight and hearing are finely attuned, and are easily overwhelmed.

A few times, until he learned, my husband would "laugh it off" seeing me get increasingly uncomfortable in a situation. After careful education and discussion, he has seen what a deep effect it can have on me [and the resulting anger from me when it is not taken seriously]. Now, I usually do not subject myself to an environment where there may be a chance of overload. He has learned I would rather be away from crowds, busy commercial venues. And if there is a sudden situation, when we are together, he will will ask me, "would you like me to finish and you can go back to the car?", allowing me to make the decision, which I appreciate greatly.
Ginger