A group of local citizens concerned about drug abuse problems can be credited as the founders of the first crisis line in the Copper Country. Dial Drug, Inc., the forerunner to Dial Help, was established in January 1971, with the crisis line starting operation in September of that year. Dealing mainly with drug crises, Dial Drug and its crisis line 482-DRUG, were utilized primarily by high school and college students. At that time, the crisis line was staffed entirely with volunteers and financially backed through private donations and community fundraising events.

Dial Drug received its initial state support from the Michigan Department of Mental Health in 1973. As time went by, with increased demand for services and the realization that alcohol and drug abuse are symptomatic of a larger problem, the agency changed its name to Dial Help. In 1974, services were expanded to provide 24-hour crisis coverage and to implement substance abuse prevention programs in area schools. In 1981, in response to the need for 24-hour crisis response to sexual assault victims and their families/significant others, a Rape Victim Support Team, funded through a government grant, was developed. Ten years later, in 1991, the Michigan Crime Victims Services Commission expanded the program to include victimization of all types.

Over the years, Dial Help has transformed from an all-volunteer organization to an agency which, while still reliant upon volunteer assistance, maintains a professional staff. In 1999, Dial Help purchased a building in downtown Houghton, increasing visibility and adding walk-in access to clients. Dial Help continues to rely upon volunteers in a variety of capacities.