Definition & Meaning of "[hit|reach] rock bottom"

What is the origin of the idiom "hit rock bottom" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "hit rock bottom" is related to the idea of a miner who has dug deep into the earth and reached the very bottom layer of rock. The phrase has been in use in English since at least the mid-20th century, and it has been applied to a wide range of situations, including personal and financial struggles, addiction, and mental health issues. In general, the phrase is used to describe a situation where someone has experienced a significant and often painful setback, and where they are at the lowest point in their life, with little hope of improvement.