Strictly Come Dancing head judge and CALM Ambassador Shirley Ballas joins Harry for one of the most powerful and emotional conversations recorded on Question The Default.

Shirley speaks with extraordinary honesty about the loss of her brother David to suic*de, the seven-year stalking ordeal that changed every part of how she lives, and her own experiences of suic*dal thoughts during the menopause.

For the first time, Shirley reads aloud a letter she has carried in her heart for nearly 20 years. A letter to David. Words she has never written down, until now.

In this deeply moving episode, Shirley opens up about:

• Losing her brother to suic*de

• The fear and hyper-vigilance caused by years of stalking

• Protecting her mum and niece through that trauma

• Living with grief and unanswered questions

• Her own darkest moments and how counselling saved her

• Why talking openly about mental health matters more than ever

This is a conversation about love, loss, stigma, survival and the strength it takes to keep showing up.

It’s also a reminder of why honest conversations about suic*de save lives – and why nobody should face these experiences alone.

A hugely important episode, told with courage, vulnerability and heart.

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This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:

Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net

Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk

Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org

GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)

If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.

For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.

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