Working is undoubtedly an important aspect of western life. As well as structuring time, it provides financial security, meaning, identity and social participation, and has a beneficial effect on long-term physical and mental well-being. Despite this, people with mental health conditions have the lowest employment rate of any disabled group, although many of them want to work and work is highly beneficial for their physical and mental health. Existing research on mental health problems and employment outcomes have tended to focus on interventions for people with severe mental illness. Little research exists on the relationship between affective disorders, mainly depression and anxiety, and employment. This review focuses on studies conducted in the UK. Its conclusion is that there is no single rigorous investigation to test the relationship between common mental disorders and vocational outcomes.