Have you ever said something like 'hang in there' to someone?

once, and I just realized it after that person thanked me. I didn't know it has a big impact on that person's life.

Yes

Yes many times

Hell no! I can only think of that lame Hallmark kitten dangling from something and "Hang in there Baby" scrawled across the card ...SO lame!! (imo)

Yes. I've never said it sarcastically, either. I've meant it, when I felt bad for someone going through difficult times.

Once...to someone who was about to be hanged