A new survey shows that personal finance is what worried Irish people the most in 2009.

The research published by the Samaritans today found 6 out of 10 people were concerned about debt and money, while more than a third worried about job security.

29 per cent of respondents described 2009 as a bad year, or as their worst year ever.

The Samaritans are urging people to talk about their worries if they feel overwhelmed during the festive season.

Their confidential phoneline is 1850 60-90-90.