Hiding a layoff from the family, bad idea? after 16 years as a medical assistant

I was laid off 21 weeks ago and have not told my family because I do not want them to worry. Any experience at all would help. Bills are coming up and I cannot keep this quiet. Did it get easier afterwards?

I told my partner the same evening with a simple plan: what happened, what I was doing and what I needed. It was a relief.

Kids often pick up more than you think. A short, calm explanation helped mine feel secure.