The holidays are one of the busiest times of the year. With worries such as purchasing the proper gifts for loved ones and arranging family gatherings occupying the minds of many, people find it difficult to focus on making the most of the holiday season.

”U.S. adults [feel] joyous but overwhelmed during [the] holiday season, as nearly nine in 10 (89%) say that concerns such as not having enough money, missing love ones and anticipating family conflict can cause them stress [during] this time of year,” wrote the American Psychological Association in their article, the data which came from a poll they conducted in 2023 regarding the common stressors of the holidays, which can be read here.

In addition to preparing for the holidays, many people, especially those who work retail or are a part of law enforcement, must handle the consequences of these stressors, which can increase the demand of their job and make it difficult to focus on the holidays.

“A 2021 survey found that 47% of retail workers say their stress level increases during the holidays,” wrote the NIOSH Science Blog in their article regarding tips for retail workers to manage fatigue and stress during the holidays, which can be read here.

Cathedral Prep Alumni Marc Bellotti is the supervisor for the Crisis Intervention for the City of Erie Police Department, which involves responding to calls regarding mental health crises and domestic violence and disputes.

”Sometimes people [cooperate] with us, and sometimes we have to fight with people,” Marc Bellotti said. “Some people we [can] help by taking them to the hospital, and some people we arrest for committing crimes.”

During the holidays, individuals with severe mental health issues tend to experience increased levels of depression and more frequent mental health episodes, which can jeopardize situations and add to the stress.

”It’s easy to get stressed, angry, and depressed [when] dealing with the types of calls that come in during the holiday season,” Marc Bellotti said. “That’s why I always take vacation time during the holidays to be away from [my] job [so] I can enjoy [spending time with] my family.”

Despite the stress that comes with being the Supervisor of Mental Health Crisis Unit, Marc Bellotti plans on slowing down during holiday season.

”[I plan on] taking my family to holiday themed events and making sure that I am around for whatever they may need,” he said.

Cathedral Prep 2024 graduate Dom Bellotti is a Wegmans coordinator who runs the store once the members of the store leadership team have finished their shifts.

”My job is fast-paced and comes with unique twists and turns,” Dom Bellotti said.

During the holiday season, Wegmans becomes a busy store as customers purchase meals and gifts for their loved ones.

“Sometimes it is difficult as a busy a day can be draining, [which leaves me] with less energy to celebrate the holidays,” Dom Bellotti said.

Despite the business that comes with working as a coordinator, Dom plans on making the most of Christmas break.

”I plan on taking time to hang out with my family and celebrate the holidays with them.”