Background With rising rates of depression and anxiety among young Australians and the limitations of conventional antidepressants, pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing offers potential to optimize medication selection. Understanding stakeholder perspectives—especially those of young adults—is crucial for its successful clinical integration.

Aims & Objectives This study explored young adults’ (ages 18–24) attitudes toward PGx testing for antidepressant treatment, focusing on perceived benefits, concerns, and barriers to adoption.

Methods Semi-structured focus groups and interviews were conducted with participants who had current or past antidepressant experience. Sessions were transcribed and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results Saturation was reached after nine sessions (17 participants). Three key themes emerged:

Current Practices: Frustration with trial-and-error prescribing.
PGx Perspectives: Potential to improve medication selection and reduce side effects, but concerns about cost, treatment delays, and efficacy.
Barriers: Limited GP awareness and knowledge to use PGx results.

Discussion The study reveals gaps in youth mental health care, particularly in patient involvement. PGx testing is seen as promising but requires addressing cost, accessibility, and accuracy concerns. Education for patients and providers is essential for integration. Findings are informing an ongoing pilot RCT at the Perron Institute, which aims to evaluate PGx-guided antidepressant pharmacotherapy in youth.