Influencer Felca discusses social phobia and bullying history

Brazilian digital influencer Felipe Bressanim Pereira, known as Felca, has sparked widespread discussion following a video detailing his diagnosis of social phobia (social anxiety disorder). In the video, Felca shared traumatic experiences of bullying and physical aggression suffered between the ages of 12 and 18, including an incident where he was beaten by five classmates. He described how these experiences led to long-term emotional scars, causing him to avoid social situations and, at times, rely on alcohol to cope with professional interactions.

Following the video's release, Google searches related to social phobia in Brazil surged by 5,000%. The influencer also announced a 90-day challenge titled “#simfel,” aimed at overcoming his social avoidance by saying “yes” to social invitations.

Parallel to the mental health discussion, reports surfaced regarding Felca’s electoral status. Data from the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) indicates his voter registration has been canceled since 2025 due to failure to vote in three consecutive elections. This irregularity prevents him from voting in the 2026 presidential elections and may restrict access to certain public services, such as obtaining passports or government-backed loans.