Meet Miss Washington USA Carisa Erickson, mom of 3 and mental health advocate

July 3, 2026 - 20:36

Carisa Erickson is not your typical pageant winner. The newly crowned Miss Washington USA balances the demands of motherhood with a powerful mission to destigmatize mental health struggles. As a mother of three, Erickson brings a grounded perspective to the title, often speaking about the challenges and joys of raising a family while pursuing her own goals.

Her platform centers on mental health advocacy, a cause she holds close after her own experiences. Erickson has been open about her journey with anxiety and postpartum depression, using her new role to encourage others to seek help without shame. She believes that the pressures of modern life, especially for parents, can be overwhelming, and she wants to create a community where vulnerability is seen as strength.

Erickson's win has resonated with many in the Seattle area and beyond, as she represents a shift in the pageant world toward authenticity and real-world impact. She plans to use her year as Miss Washington USA to visit schools, speak at community events, and partner with local organizations to promote mental wellness. Her message is clear: you do not have to be perfect to be powerful.