Our increased love of a voice note indicates that we want to hear human voices in an increasingly digitally-focussed world, and this has never been more important than in the age of a worsening global pandemic.

With increasing numbers of people self-isolating to contain potential coronavirus symptoms – and even more adding responsible social distancing restraints into their daily lives – loneliness is sure to be the mental health epidemic that follows hot on the heels of the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to research from The Lancet, the key impacts of quarantine on our mental health have been found to resemble PTSD symptoms, as well as confusion and anger. The coronavirus aftermath has even been said to have the potential to cause a social contact recession, as well as an economic one.

A friend of mine has had to self-isolate, as she is showing coronavirus symptoms. So, I’ve been sure to send her voice notes of reassurance and daily conversation bites to keep her human contact levels high – seeing as her partner was abroad and her only other form of contact has been her mum dropping grocery shopping at her front door and scarpering, as all delivery slots had been taken. Just a few minutes’ playback of a familiar voice can do wonders in stressful times.

A love letter to the WhatsApp voice note – in good times and bad