Psychotherapist and speaker Robert Lawrence Friedman knows the season for buying gifts, string lights and writing cards is approaching fast and so the Forest Hills resident and psychotherapist is offering his advice on coping with holiday craziness.

The psychotherapist, who has been practicing for 15 years, specializes in the area of stress management. Friedman, who has been helping people overcome stress for over 14 years, helps people overcome their stress by identifying and overcoming their "stressors."

Friedman says "one of the areas that is important to explore during the holidays is what overwhelms a person during this time. One of the keys around dealing with stress is being able to ask for help. Knowing that it's okay not to think you have to handle everything.

He added, "When you say you're going to buy presents for someone to make them happy, sometimes you forget about yourself. What about you? You have to nurture yourself first. In terms of time management, make sure you leave enough time for you to nurture yourself in this process. Leave time for a bubble bath or deep breaths.

For those individuals who suffered the loss of a loved one, Friedman said the most important thing is to "be real". He said, "People shouldn't hide their pain. They should let themselves be real and mourn, if that's what feels most right. If you can't celebrate, don't put on a fake smile. That causes added unnecessary pain. For those fearful of attacks after 9/11, Friedman says "you can't let the fear control your life. Go on as you normally would and enjoy the holiday.