Hiding a layoff from the family, bad idea?

I was laid off 18 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. I want a plan before I speak. 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.

Do not wait until a bill surprises them. The longer it goes, the harder it gets.