The concept of being “friends with benefits” has gained popularity among young adults, offering a casual alternative to traditional dating. However, therapists caution that such arrangements can lead to emotional complications.

Emma Medeiros, a resident of Lewiston, Maine, reflects on her own experience, which began decades ago while she was in college. She and her close friend, Adam Caldow, decided to enter into a physical relationship without romantic implications. “We wanted to lose our virginity, but neither one of us knew what we were doing, so we thought, this is a good match,” Medeiros recalled.

The arrangement was clear from the start. Medeiros emphasized, “We really made it clear to each other, this is a physical thing.” For several years, their sexual encounters coexisted alongside their friendship, seemingly without any strings attached.

While Medeiros and Caldow eventually transitioned from friends with benefits to marriage, their story is not the norm. Many individuals find that such relationships can become emotionally charged. Therapists highlight the potential pitfalls, advising those who enter these arrangements to be prepared for complications.

Emotional Risks and Complications

Research suggests that the emotional risks associated with friends with benefits relationships can be significant. A study conducted by the American Psychological Association found that individuals often struggle with feelings of jealousy, insecurity, and unreciprocated affection.

Therapists warn that these dynamics can lead to misunderstandings. As friendships evolve into sexual arrangements, one party may develop deeper feelings, potentially jeopardizing the initial connection. “It’s crucial to communicate openly about expectations and feelings,” advises Dr. Lisa Hartman, a licensed therapist based in New York. “Many people enter these relationships thinking they can keep it casual, but emotions often complicate matters.”

Medeiros illustrates this point, acknowledging that while her relationship with Caldow turned into a successful marriage, they both navigated a complex emotional landscape. “We were lucky, but I have seen friends struggle with the boundaries,” she said.

Examining the Trends

The rise of dating apps and changing social norms have contributed to the popularity of friends with benefits arrangements. A survey by the dating platform OkCupid found that nearly 50% of respondents aged 18 to 29 have engaged in casual sexual relationships with friends.

These statistics highlight a significant cultural shift, yet the emotional implications remain a topic of concern. While some may view these relationships as liberating, others may find themselves grappling with unexpected emotional challenges.

In conclusion, the allure of a friends with benefits relationship can be enticing, but potential emotional pitfalls warrant serious consideration. As more individuals explore this type of arrangement, open communication and clear boundaries are essential to mitigate risks and maintain the friendship.

Qatar will compete in a formidable Group A alongside regional rivals Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Yemen in the upcoming U-20 Gulf Cup. The group stage draw took place on July 28, 2025, in Doha, revealing the challenging path ahead for the Qatari team.

The inaugural U-20 Gulf Cup, organized by the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation (AGCFF), will be hosted in Abha, Saudi Arabia, from August 28 to September 9, 2025. Eight nations will participate in this youth tournament, which aims to bolster youth football in the region.

Group Lineup and Tournament Background

In addition to Qatar, Group B will feature Oman, Iraq, Bahrain, and Egypt. Egypt replaces the United Arab Emirates, who withdrew from the competition. The Egyptian team is looking to use this tournament as a critical preparation stage for the upcoming FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, scheduled from September 27 to October 19.

The AGCFF established the U-20 Gulf Cup to enhance competition among young players and provide a platform for developing emerging talent in the region. This initiative reflects a commitment to nurturing the next generation of football stars.

Al Rayyan’s Participation in Gulf Club Champions League

In related news, Qatar’s Al Rayyan will represent the nation in the upcoming Gulf Club Champions League for the 2025-2026 season. The AGCFF confirmed the participating teams on the same day as the U-20 draw. Al Rayyan, which finished fifth in the previous season’s Qatar Stars League, is currently in the Netherlands for preseason training to prepare for the challenging season ahead.

The Gulf Club Champions League will include an eight-team lineup featuring clubs from across the region, such as Bahrain’s Sitra SC, Iraq’s Zakho Club, Kuwait’s Al-Qadsia, Oman’s Al-Nahda, Saudi Arabia’s Al-Shabab, UAE’s Al Ain, and Yemen’s Al-Tadamun Hadramaut. The tournament will run from October to April.

Last season, Duhok from Iraq claimed the title after a thrilling final where they defeated Al-Qadsia with a score of 2-1. The league aims to promote regional football by fostering competition and sharing expertise among clubs.

The upcoming U-20 Gulf Cup and Gulf Club Champions League promise to deliver exciting football and showcase the talent within the region, highlighting the growing interest and investment in youth and club football in the Gulf area.

Gulf Cup U-20 Draw:

Group A: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Yemen

Group B: Oman, Iraq, Bahrain, Egypt

A tragic incident involving the death of a two-month-old infant has ignited calls for a change in medication dispensing laws in New Zealand. On July 19, 2023, Bellamere Arwyn Duncan was reportedly given an adult dosage of phosphate by a pharmacy in Manawatū. This error led to her hospitalization at Starship Hospital, where she later succumbed to phosphate toxicity, according to a preliminary opinion from a coroner.

The incident has raised critical concerns about the current protocols in place for medication checks in pharmacies. A clinical director from a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit has expressed support for legislation requiring that two healthcare professionals verify medication before it is dispensed. This dual-check system aims to minimize the risk of similar tragedies in the future.

The urgency for reform is echoed by a member of the national executive of the Pharmaceutical Society, who acknowledged the necessity of such checks but highlighted the need for improved resources for pharmacists. They stated that the New Zealand pharmacy workforce is currently facing a crisis, which complicates the implementation of rigorous safety measures.

In the wake of this incident, health professionals are advocating for a thorough review of medication dispensing protocols to ensure that all patients, especially vulnerable infants, receive the highest standard of care.

As discussions around this legislation continue, the focus remains on preventing future medication errors and ensuring that every child receives safe and appropriate treatment.

A woman from Buckinghamshire has shared her journey of empowerment following her husband’s infidelity, which she discovered after 25 years of marriage. Instead of succumbing to anger, she took control of her life by seeking a new relationship through a dating site specifically aimed at married individuals.

The revelation of her husband George’s unfaithfulness unfolded when she found a receipt from a dinner that he had shared with another woman. This particular evening struck a chord as it was at a restaurant that had become a cherished spot for the couple over the years. The receipt indicated a dinner for two, raising immediate suspicions about George’s activities while he claimed to be out with friends.

Initially, she dismissed the signs as part of a midlife crisis, attributing George’s newfound energy to routine changes such as exercise and skincare. However, the emotional distance between them had grown significantly, leaving her feeling isolated. “We weren’t exactly close,” she reflected, describing how their relationship had devolved into a routine focused solely on their two children, both of whom were in secondary school at the time.

Feeling compelled to uncover the truth, she hired a private investigator to follow George during his alleged outings. This decision marked a turning point in her life, propelling her to confront the reality of her marriage. The investigator’s findings confirmed her worst fears, solidifying her resolve to reclaim her self-worth.

Despite the heartache, she found solace in the unexpected. Through a dating platform for those in similar situations, she met a supportive partner who understood her experiences. This new relationship has allowed her to regain confidence and happiness, transforming a painful chapter into one of personal growth.

The story reflects a broader theme of resilience among individuals facing betrayal. Many find themselves at a crossroads, needing to make difficult decisions about their futures. For this woman, confronting her husband’s affair became a catalyst for rediscovering her own identity and desires, an empowering journey that resonates with many navigating similar emotional landscapes.

While the image of her husband and the other woman lingers, she chooses to focus on her own path forward. Through her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of self-empowerment, urging others to seek fulfillment beyond betrayal.