Episode Details

Kindness may seem simple—but it has powerful effects on our health, relationships, and longevity.

In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Warren Ng, a psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian’s Center for Youth Mental Health, about what it really means to be kind and why it matters more than ever. Dr. Ng explains that kindness begins with intention and connection, often leading to small but meaningful actions that can ripple outward to others.

The conversation explores the biology of kindness, including how it increases oxytocin—often called the “feel-good” hormone—while boosting serotonin and reducing stress hormones like cortisol. These changes can support heart health, lower anxiety, and even strengthen the immune system.

Dr. Ng also discusses research linking kindness and social connection to longer life expectancy and better cognitive health, including studies on volunteering and brain function in older adults. He introduces the concept of “kindfulness,” or being intentional about kindness, and offers practical tips on how to incorporate it into daily life—whether through helping others, expressing gratitude, or practicing self-compassion.

Chapters

00:00 – What Is Kindness and Why Does It Matter?
Defining kindness as intention, connection, and action—and how small acts can create a ripple effect

04:00 – The Science of Kindness in the Body
How oxytocin, serotonin, and reduced cortisol improve mood, heart health, and stress levels

08:00 – Kindness, Longevity, and Brain Health
Research on social connection, volunteering, immune function, and cognitive benefits over time

11:30 – Practicing “Kindfulness” Every Day
Practical ways to be kind to others and yourself, and why connection is essential for well-being

Key Topics Covered

What kindness is and how it shows up in daily life
The “feel-good” hormones released by kind acts
Effects of kindness on stress, heart health, and immunity
The link between kindness, connection, and longevity
Volunteering and its impact on brain health and cognitive function
The concept of “kindfulness” and intentional compassion
Strategies for practicing self-kindness and building self-esteem
The role of kindness in reducing loneliness and isolation

Takeaway Message

Kindness isn’t just a social gesture; it’s a powerful driver of health. Even small, intentional acts can lower stress, strengthen connection, and improve both mental and physical well-being. In a world where many feel isolated, kindness offers a simple, meaningful way to care for ourselves and each other – and to build healthier, more connected lives.

Doctor Bio

Warren Y.K. Ng, MD, MPH is the community health director at the Center for Youth Mental Health at NewYork-Presbyterian. He is a professor of psychiatry at Columbia University, medical director for outpatient behavioral health at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center; and director of clinical services, Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at CUIMC; behavioral health service line clinical innovation officer, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. 

Dr. Ng oversees the comprehensive spectrum of clinical programs in child, adolescent, and adult outpatient and community behavioral health at NewYork-Presbyterian's Division of Community and Population Health. He also oversees the psychiatric services at the NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital at Children’s Hospital of New York within the outpatient, emergency department, and inpatient services. He is the immediate past president of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent (AACAP) and serves on the NYS Governor's Behavioral Health S