Jon - when I came to the part of your post where you stated you were concerned over 'family dynamics' i felt I needed to reply.

If sneaking outside to smoke a joint brings you relief, then sneak outside and smoke a joint. I believe we are all beyond worrying about others (generally the biggest waste of time there is). We are just trying to make it thru another day of pain without breaking down.

If your family loves you, this isnt a problem. Maybe your embarrased by it, but you need to get over it.

My wife wasnt exactly thrilled when i first brought some home, but now she occasionally asks if i have enough. You arent going to abuse it and when your family sees it helps, they'll be yout biggest defenders. My whole family is now pro legalization, where a few years ago they could care less. I hope it works for you as well as it does for me. I cant imagine going to bed without medicating first.