They are and they aren't. They're both a form of escapism, for the user to deny reality while in an altered state of consciousness. Users do it to their detriment, despite social and health consequences. Thus, some of the techniques used to help people with substance use disorder (SUD) are also applicable to screen addiction. fwiw, gambling addiction is another different but same addiction with similar treatment plans. No, gambler's aren't shooting up heroin the the bathroom, nor are screen addicts, but at some level they are comparable. The first thing you reach for in the morning and the last thing you think about before bed.
This elides the difference between drugs/addictions that make you more conscious of your surroundings and those which make you less conscious of them. I put cigarettes in the same category as coffee. They make you more alert, make your brain work faster. They are sister chemicals. If I want to escape I drink or smoke weed, play video games or gamble. Cigarettes are not an escape.
