Some two-thirds of the population are afraid they will not have enough money to live comfortably next year.
A Samaritans survey found that 68 per cent of people are concerned about their personal finances for the year ahead, while almost half (49 per cent) are worried about losing their jobs or struggling to find work.
Samaritans of Ireland director Suzanne Costello said the recession is continuing to hit people hard.
"We've had more than 250,000 calls to Samaritans helpline over the past year, which is an increase of 9 per cent," said Ms Costello.
The survey, conducted by YouGov on behalf of the Samaritans, polled a sample of 1,000 people and found money worries to be the nation's biggest concern in 2011.
More than a quarter of those surveyed (27 per cent) said last year was a bad year, if not their worst year ever.
Concerns about money and debts, mortgages, rent and housing, and job security and redundancy were among the most significant worries identified in the survey.
Other worries included physical health issues, with 32 per cent citing this as a serious issue, and problems with family and friends, with 37 per cent saying this was a concern.
A further 70 per cent of those polled said they were worried they would suffer directly from spending cuts outlined in the Budget announced at the beginning of the month, including health, education and welfare.
And a fifth admitted they were afraid they may actually lose their home in 2012.
"We know the effects of the recession have hit people hard," Ms Costello added.
"So if you're struggling to cope with the challenges you're facing in these difficult times, we'd encourage you to get in touch with Samaritans."
PA