Hi and welcome!
Your episodes are very common. They are most often refered to as "auras".
I have simple partials, and my seizures are actually intense aura sensations. I get a feeling of anxiety first, then faster breathing, followed by intense feeling of deja-vu (like a dream I had or something), then a really bad smell. The whole thing can last from just a few seconds to 30 or so seconds.
You're right, you have to look after yourself throughout the whole ordeal. Are you 100% aware and concious when these happen? If so, you could always excuse yourself and move to a quiet area. Or just be honest and let the person you're with or even strangers you might be around know that you're having a seizure and you'll be okay in a few minutes.
That is what I do with mine. I remain completely aware and functioning with these, but I also have to "take a moment" and breathe through the seizures, which can interrupt a conversation! So, I just come clean about it! 100% of people I have to tell, completely understand and are very accommodating.
I hope this helps! It's also really important to wear a medic alert bracelet. You never know when you'll need help from someone else.
Ginny