Prolonged University Closures and Mental Health Outcomes Among University of Khartoum Students

Prolonged university closures represent a major disruption to higher education systems, particularly in conflict affected settings. This study examines the association between prolonged university closures and mental health outcomes among students at the University of Khartoum within a context of political instability, economic collapse, and armed conflict. A quantitative cross sectional survey was conducted among 500 undergraduate students using validated instruments to assess stress, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression models to identify key predictors of psychological distress. The findings reveal high prevalence rates of stress, anxiety, and depression, with a substantial proportion of students also reporting suicidal ideation. Duration of university closures showed strong positive associations with all mental health outcomes and remained a significant predictor after controlling for demographic and contextual factors. Financial strain, social isolation, and academic disruption also contributed significantly to psychological distress. The results indicate that prolonged university closures function as chronic stressors that place students at elevated mental health risk. These findings highlight the need for crisis responsive mental health support, flexible academic policies, and emergency education strategies that protect student wellbeing alongside academic continuity in conflict affected higher education systems.