Deep Limbic System Thalamus (DLS)

Top down active view Left side active view Underside active view
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. 

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