Barnardos have expressed concern at the gaps in mental health supports for families.
The children's charity will outline the impact the recession has had on parents and how that affects their children at a conference today which will be attended by junior Minister Kathleen Lynch.
The group are calling for better integrated services for families experiencing difficulties.
"I think it's caused by austerity, it's caused by the economy," said CEO Fergus Finlay.
"It's harder to feed your kids, it's harder to give hope to your kids. And some parents are really feeling the pressure, and it is affecting their health."
He said Barnardos were "very aware" of the effect that has on children, saying there is a clear link between the wellbeing of parents and their children.