Nissan sentra 2001

how do i fix the following: instruments panel lights go out and gauges stop working when i have my headlights on.

Choice A: find a local mechanic. One that specializes in electrical systems would be good.

Choice B: You get the wiring diagrams for the car and a digital multimeter and you start hunting for a bad switch/ground/connection. Your clue is to focus in on the headlight & instrument panel wiring and find out what & where they have things in common.