Karise triumphs: 'I've been to hell and back'

The soulful singer has healed some old wounds and is looking forward to a bright future.

This time last year Karise Eden was living in a women’s refuge after ending a troubled relationship. “I used to sing after we fought because it was a nice release,”says Karise. “He used to say ‘Don’t sing’… he tried to push me down a bit.” Now with multiple number ones on the iTunes chart under her belt, it’s hard to imagine anyone telling Karise not to sing. “The show has helped me realise my worth,” says Karise. “I’ve had the most amazing support.”

But the scars of the past have presented plenty of challenges. “I am very introverted.Naturally I’m a thinker, so it is really hard to be in this position. I am not really good in groups and I don’t like too many people around me. I will go and sit in the corner.” She’s had more than her fair share of ups and downs in her 19 years. “When I was younger I had a lot of violent episodes and psychosis and I didn’t actually walk outside the house for a year,” she says.

But with the quiet encouragement of her coach, Seal, an inspiring Karise has truly begun the healing process. “I think he understands where I am at… both our history in life, we come from a similar place, different times but same place,” she says. “We only have to look at each other and nod in a sense and we know what’s going on with each other.” Her experience on the show has helped bring her family closer together than ever before.

“They’ve [my sister and Mum] been great — as best as we can be — it’s been good.” Ever the reluctant star, Karise confesses performing is still an incredibly emotional process for her. “When I am backstage I go through a lot of crap. One minute I am depressed, the next minute I am crying, the next minute I am happy — too happy.”