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deep limbic system thalamus dls
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DLS Functions DLS Problems Some Conditions Affecting the DLS

Mood control     
Motivation
Attitude
Appetite/sleep
Bonding
Sense of smell
Libido

Depression
Poor motivation
Poor attitude
Sleep/appetite issues
Tends to isolate
Lack of smell
Negativity, guilt
Hopelessness

Depression
Cyclic mood disorders
Pain syndromes

DLS Treatments

Meds to increase norepinephrine/dopamine/serotonin
Supplements DL phenylalanine, SAMe, L-tyrosine
Cognitive-behavioral strategies
Biofeedback, increase left prefrontal activity
Intense aerobic exercise
Relationship counseling
Increased protein diet ““ The Zone

DLS Meds

Depression
Cyclic mood disorders
Pain syndromes

Increased activity in the DLS is often associated with depression, dysthymia and negativity.  Left-sided problems are often associated with anger and irritability, right sided problems more often associated with inwardly directed sadness.  In our experience we have seen diffuse DLS overactivity tends to be more consistent depression and focal increased DLS activity (more on one side than the other) to be associated with cyclic mood disorders.  When focal increased uptake is found in conjunction with patchy increased uptake across the cortical surface there is a higher likelihood of a cyclothymic or bipolar disorder. If clinically indicated, diffuse increased DLS uptake is often helped by antidepressant medications.  If there is also increased anterior cingulate activity consider a serotonergic antidepressant. If there is not increased anterior cingulate activity consider an antidepressant which increases either dopamine (such as buprion) or norepinephrine (such as imipramine or desipramine).    We use anticonvulsants or lithium to help with focal DLS hyperactivity when a cyclic mood clinical pattern is present.  We have also seen increased activity in this part of the brain in our normal population. Clinical correlation is needed. 

Welcome to Amen Clinics

Amen Clinics, Inc. specializes in brain health, innovative neuroscience research, diagnosis and treatment for a wide variety of neuropsychiatric, behavioral and learning problems in children, teenagers and adults. Established in 1989 by Daniel Amen, M.D., the center has an international reputation for utilizing brain SPECT scan imaging for a wide variety of neuropsychiatric problems, including ADD, anxiety, depression, autism and memory problems. Our philosophy at the Amen Clinics is simple: change your brain, change your life.

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