What Does Kindness Do for Your Health?

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 Services Advisory Council. At the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he served in the Council on Children, Adolescents, and their Families. He is an Aspen Institute Health Innovator Fellow and a member of the Aspen Global Learning Network. He has been the recipient of the Columbia University Irving Medical Center's Martha Hooven Award for Excellence in Community Service. Warren Y.K. Ng, MD, MPH - Center for Youth Mental Health | NewYork-Presbyterian