Dr. Gutterman serves as the Clinical Director for LeBauer Behavioral Medicine. He is a Licensed Psychologist and provides clinical services at our Walter Reed location in Greensboro. Dr. Gutterman has more than 30 years’ experience in treating adolescents, adults, couples and families. He treats a myriad of issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, health, and relationship issues. He can be reached at 336-547-1574.

In just a few weeks many of us will take part in the biggest shopping day of the year — Black Friday. Then, over the coming weeks, we will probably spend far too much money buying for loved ones. It doesn’t have to be that way.

A little preparation and a few ideas can get you through the holiday shopping season with a lot less stress come January when the credit card bills and bank statements arrive.

Preparation is key. Decide before you hit the stores or shop online exactly how much you will spend. Be specific. Set amounts to spend on gifts for friends, gifts for family and on the other expenses of the holidays.

Create a list of items to buy and how much you will spend on them.

Sticking to budgets doesn’t come easily for some. If that’s you, here are additional ideas.

•  Leave the credit cards and check book at home. Bring only cash to the store.

•  Shop with a friend. You need someone who knows your tendency to overspend and is a strong enough friend to call you out on it.

•  Allow your friend to talk about impulse buys.

•  Are you afraid to let your spouse or partner know how much you are spending? Are you hiding your purchases?

•  Are you buying items you don’t need, or even want, because you enjoy the excitement of finding a bargain. Do you find yourself feeling guilty and constantly returning items?

These are signs of a more serious problem called oniomania. Many of the tips listed above can help, especially shopping with a close friend. You are less likely to overspend while someone is watching.

Other useful ideas include:

•  Admit you have a problem.

•  Stay away from the TV shopping channels and shopping websites.

•  When the urge to shop hits, take a long walk.

•  Consider counseling or joining a group such as debtorsanonymous.org.

The holidays can be an especially tough time. Remember, most people want what you want — more time to spend with loved ones.