hit a bad patch

To experience or be in the midst of a period of trouble, difficulty, or hardship. Her business has hit a bit of a bad patch lately. If things don't pick up soon, she might have to close shop. Our marriage hit a bad patch after Frank lost his job, but now our relationship is stronger than ever. Oh, honey, you've just hit a bad patch. I'm sure things will get better soon.

go through, hit, etc. a ˈbad/ˈsticky patch

come to a difficult time in your business, marriage, etc: We’ve struck a bad patch in our marriage. ♢ High inflation meant that her business went through a sticky patch.