have been to hell and back

have been to hell and back

To have 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, have, hell
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

have been to hell and back

Fig. to have survived a great deal of trouble. What a terrible day! I feel like I have been to hell and back. After a day of shopping, I feel like I have been to hell and back.
See also: and, back, been, have, hell
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • 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
"I have been to hell and back, but what does not kill you makes you stronger."