Meme exchange has become a norm in most friendship groups: it’s a quick, free and accessible way to brighten someone’s day or remind them you’re in their thoughts.

Adult life is busy, and sadly not a sitcom, so your closest pals are probably spread across the country, and it’s not always feasible to pop by in person or send another gift (as, yes, we’re having that many breakdowns).

Though the five love languages are used in romantic relationships to help couples understand each other’s needs, they also relate to friendships. Physical touch, gifts, words of affirmation, quality time and acts of service are all ways of showing up for the people you love.

Relationships counsellor Louise Tyler explains how memes can offer digital hugs to our closest friends when they need it most. She said: “Sending memes to friends comes under what we therapists call ‘warm fuzzies’.

“These are small gestures between people, that say, ‘I see you; you mean something to me.’ In the past, these gestures could be compliments or small thoughtful gifts, but nowadays sending a text message or meme has the same effect.

“It’s about small moments of vital human connection that come with a shot of oxytocin, the bonding or ‘love hormone’.”

How sending memes became our friendship love language