About Beat the Demon
Beat the Demon Coffee Company was founded by Darren and Scott, who first met while serving in The Parachute Regiment in the early 2000s. Though they were in different battalions (Darren in the 3rd and Scott in the 2nd), their paths crossed frequently during their years of service, which included tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Scott & Darren of BtD
Scott was medically discharged from the Paras in 2018 after being diagnosed with PTSD. Darren left the following year, feeling that his military career had naturally run its course.
Although they were aware of each other during their time in the Paras, they weren’t close friends. However, fate intervened when they both found themselves working for a gas heating company in the East of England. Surprised by the coincidence, they reconnected and quickly became good friends.
Despite finding a new career, Scott continued to struggle with his PTSD. In his own words, he felt he was being "bounced between therapists," while GPs experimented with different medications to address his overwhelming anger and persistent need for adrenaline—neither of which always led to positive outcomes.
Darren
Feeling increasingly powerless, Scott turned to Darren and confided in him about his struggles. Given their shared history, Darren immediately understood and offered his support by simply listening and empathizing. It became clear to Darren that his friend was being let down by the system. With minimal help from the military and a lack of understanding from the medical profession, Darren stepped in to support Scott, often talking with him on a daily basis.
With Darren’s help, along with the tireless support of Scott’s wife, Scott began to improve. This experience planted the seed for Beat the Demon. How could they encourage people experiencing PTSD to open up? Especially those who are not accustomed to sharing their fears, who might view it as a sign of weakness?
Scott
Scott and Darren knew many men from their regiment who had struggled after leaving the military. With little or no help, some of these men had turned to alcoholism, become estranged from their families, lost their homes, and tragically, too many had taken their own lives.
Determined to make a difference, however small, Scott and Darren wanted to spread the message that talking about your issues is not a weakness but a strength—something to be proud of. After some brainstorming, they came up with the idea of selling coffee. Coffee, after all, is about social connection, routine, and comfort—a perfect medium to share the message about PTSD and encourage people to talk.
Beat the Demon is for anyone suffering from PTSD. Whether you are ex-military, work in emergency services, or are in any occupation that affects your mental health, you are welcome here.