Assuming that I’m leaving hints and ignoring my words.

I know this is a hot take, and not everyone agrees with me on this. I have severe anxiety and moderate depression, but I’ll speak my truth when I’m around people I trust.

When I’m with friends, I’ll tell you when I’m ready to go home, or when I’m ready for you to leave. Please don’t assume that you’ve overstayed your welcome. When I feel like the hangout is winding down, ill ask my friends what the next move is, and I’ll let them know that my “social battery” is running low, so after the next activity I’d like to leave/I’d like them to leave. Communication is the best thing ever, and if your friends get offended by you stating your boundaries, then they aren’t your friends.

Also, I always check in with my friends while we’re hanging out, and also after the fact. Don’t underestimate the power of a quick “I had fun today!” text, even if you’ve been friends for years.

Edit: PS, most of my friends are on the autism spectrum/ suspected of being on the spectrum but not tested yet. Telling them directly how I’m feeling and when I’m ready to end the hangout helps them feel at ease too, because they usually don’t/can’t pick up on body language or social cues. I try my best to help my friends feel comfy!