Zara Larsson Honoured for Supporting LGBTQ+ Mental Health

Zara Larsson has received a major international award recognising her longstanding support for LGBTQ+ young people, celebrating an artist who has consistently used her public platform to promote acceptance, equality and the importance of mental wellbeing.

The Swedish singer was named The Trevor Project's 2026 Mental Health Champion of the Year on 9 October, ahead of World Mental Health Day. The honour recognises her advocacy for LGBTQ+ equality, willingness to discuss mental health and efforts to create welcoming environments where young people can express themselves without fear of judgement.

For an artist whose music has attracted a particularly enthusiastic LGBTQ+ following, the recognition also acknowledges the strong relationship she has developed with the community throughout her career.

Why Zara Larsson received the award

Zara has repeatedly demonstrated her support through public advocacy, appearances at Pride celebrations and outspoken backing for transgender rights. She has also credited LGBTQ+ fans with influencing her music and creativity, recognising their importance to both her artistic identity and international success.

Her involvement with mental health initiatives has extended beyond performances and public statements. In 2024, she partnered with Maybelline's Brave Together initiative, which encourages conversations about anxiety, depression and seeking support, while also speaking openly about her own mental health experiences.

Responding to the honour, Zara explained that she believes people with public influence should use their platform to support causes that matter to them. She also thanked LGBTQ+ fans for the love they have shown throughout her career and emphasised that younger members of the community deserve to feel recognised, supported and accepted.

The singer becomes the sixth recipient of the award, following previous honourees Megan Thee Stallion, Dua Lipa, Dylan Mulvaney, Janelle Monáe and Lil Nas X.

Why positive LGBTQ+ representation matters

The Trevor Project provides suicide prevention and crisis intervention services for LGBTQ+ young people in the United States, alongside research and education designed to improve understanding of the challenges they face.

Its 2025 American survey found that 36% of LGBTQ+ young respondents had seriously considered attempting suicide during the previous year, while 44% of those who wanted mental health care had been unable to access it. The findings underline why supportive communities and visible public figures can make a meaningful difference, particularly for young people experiencing discrimination or isolation.

UK support: Anyone needing confidential LGBTQ+ support can contact Switchboard on 0800 0119 100, available daily from 10am to 10pm, or visit switchboard.lgbt.

For more information about The Trevor Project and its work supporting LGBTQ+ young people, visit the official wesbite for more updates

Image credit: The Trevor Project / Robin Boe