been to hell and back

been to hell and back

Having endured a difficult, trying, or perilous situation and overcome it. Josh and I have been to hell and back growing up, so I knew I had to have him as my best man at my wedding. Wow, it sounds like you've been to hell and back! I'm just glad you're home safe now.
See also: and, back, been, hell
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

been to hell and back

phr. to have survived a great deal of trouble. What a terrible day! I feel like I have been to hell and back.
See also: and, back, been, hell
McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions
See also:
  • have been to hell and back
  • to hell and back
  • be (not) out of the woods
  • be hell on
  • be hell on (one)
  • be hell on wheels
  • be over the hump
  • hump
  • hell and high water
  • hell of a someone/something
References in periodicals archive
One woman said she had been to hell and back but could now smile about the future.
Freed Ohio women post 'thank you' video on YouTube
I am a mature and experienced nurse who has just been to hell and back because of a bullying superior.
Letter: Your Short
But he has been to hell and back since his last fight against Damon Hague back in March.
BOXING: Drugs hell is over for hot Roddy