The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word HARASSES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
H
A
R
A
S
S
E
S
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "troubles at a personal level" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case troubles at a personal level = harasses.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does HARASSES mean?
HARASSES verb- To fatigue or to tire with repeated and exhausting efforts.
- To annoy endlessly or systematically; to molest.
- To put excessive burdens upon; to subject to anxieties.