Hiding a layoff from the family, bad idea? - 12 months and counting

I was laid off 21 weeks ago and have not told my family because I do not want them to worry. There are 15 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. Bills are coming up and I cannot keep this quiet. Did it get easier afterwards?

Keep everything in writing and save the confirmation numbers. It made the follow-up calls so much easier.