When somebody asks you directly about difficult times in your life how do you structure an answer?

I usually structure the answer based on my knowledge of the individual and the situation itself. It's always case by case for me.

Start by telling them yes I have a difficult time now going through....so and so.....Then tell them that you are dealing with it and need the time and space to do so on your own.

When somebody asks you directly difficult times in your life you can choose where to began like in high school years, middle school years or even childhood or from your present day and working backwards.

I first ask them why they want to know. This helps me see if they are seeking to judge me or understand me. If they are looking for help with their own situation, I make sure that there is a point prior to me telling my story (so it doesn't end up being a pity party). If they want to know more about me to understand where I am coming from, I will share intimate details that offer them a window into how I see the world.

I focus on the structure that adheres to 'Compassion-Based Therapy' which targets the following: 1) Historical influences (which past events might have lead to how you are feeling now) 2) External & Internal fears (fears/worries you have regarding yourself and that which is outside of your control) 3) Internal & External Safety/Defensive Behaviours (what you do to protect yourself from yourself and what you do to protect yourself from others) 4) Internal & External Unintended Consequences (what you think as a result of your internal emotions and how you think others might think of you based on the emotions you express when in this state) From there, you can get a good idea of the why and how of your situation.